Adenoidectomy

An Adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the adenoids, which are small, soft tissue masses located at the back of the nasal cavity. These glands play a role in the immune system during childhood, but they often shrink and become less important as children grow older.

An Adenoidectomy refers to a surgical operation from which adenoids are removed, usually for chronic sinusitis, recurrent ear infections, or obstructive sleep apnea. This is a common procedure to reduce infection risks, enhance breathing, and improve the quality of sleep. Recovery usually takes one to two weeks.

Symptoms that May Indicate a Need for Adenoidectomy

Some of the common symptoms of adenoid enlargement that may call for an adenoidectomy are recurring ear infections, snoring, difficulty breathing through the nose, mouth breathing, and changes in facial development. If obstructive sleep apnea is due to adenoid enlargement, the patient will exhibit interrupted sleep, daytime fatigue, and abnormal behavior.

Preparation for Surgery

Before the actual surgical operation of an adenoidectomy, a patient usually undergoes a pre-operative consultation to review their history and complete any outstanding tests that may be required, including blood work. It is important to follow instructions given by the surgeon before the procedure; this often includes fasting and possibly medications to avoid. The different anesthesia and pain management options will also be discussed in detail.

When is Adenoidectomy Recommended?

Adenoidectomy is indicated for chronic and recurrent adenoiditis, frequent nasal infections, or dyspnea due to adenoid hypertrophy. The other indications are sleep apnoea, chronic ear problems, and very rarely, tumours of the adenoids. Normally, adenoidectomy is usually indicated in cases of refractory or recurrent adenoid infection, nasal obstruction, and breathing problems because of the presence of hypertrophied adenoids. It also can be advised in instances such as sleep apnea, chronic ear issues, and rarely, adenoid tumors.

The Adenoidectomy Procedure

Adenoidectomy involves surgical removal of the adenoids, which can be performed by traditional surgical techniques, endoscopic, or cautery methods to reduce bleeding and discomfort.

1

Preparation

The adenoidectomy procedure is started by preparing the patient under general anesthesia.

2

Accessing the Adenoids

Access to the adenoids is carefully provided through the mouth without external incisions.

3

Removal of the Adenoids

Removal of the adenoids may be done with traditional surgical tools, endoscopic techniques, or by the use of cautery.

4

Post-Procedure Care

Bleeding is minimized and managed, and the surgical site is assessed to ensure proper healing and comfort before the patient wakes up.