Adenoidectomy
Adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure for removing the adenoids (pharyngeal tonsils). Adenoids are lymphoid tissues located at the back of the nose and throat and contribute to the immune system in children. However, when enlarged or frequently infected, they can negatively affect breathing, speech, sleep, and overall development.
Who should have adenoidectomy?
Adenoidectomy may be recommended in cases of:
• Persistent mouth breathing in children
• Nasal congestion and chronic runny nose
• Frequent ear infections (otitis)
• Hearing loss and fluid accumulation in the middle ear
• Snoring or sleep apnea
• Speech delay or pronunciation problems
• Chronic adenoid inflammation resistant to treatment
When do adenoids cause problems?
Adenoids are usually active between ages 2–6 and shrink afterward. In some children, adenoids:
• Grow excessively
• Become a constant source of infection due to inflammation
• Negatively affect nearby ear and nasal structures
In such cases, surgery becomes necessary.
How is the surgery performed?
• Performed under general anesthesia
• Adenoid tissue is removed using specialized oral instruments
• No external incision is made
• Procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes
• Child can go home a few hours later or the next day
Recovery
• Mild throat pain or discomfort may occur
• Soft, warm foods recommended for the first days
• Avoid strenuous activity for 1 week
• Full recovery within 5–7 days
• Breathing improves, snoring and ear problems decrease
Benefits of adenoidectomy
• Restores nasal breathing
• Improves sleep quality and overall development
• Reduces speech and hearing problems
• Prevents fluid buildup in the middle ear and otitis
• Enhances overall quality of life for the child
FAQ
1. Does removing adenoids weaken immunity?
• No. Other lymphoid tissues compensate, maintaining overall immune function.
2. At what age can surgery be done?
• Usually recommended after age 2. Earlier if severe breathing difficulty occurs.
3. Is the surgery painful?
• No pain during surgery. Mild throat discomfort may occur afterward but subsides quickly.
Who should have adenoidectomy?
Adenoidectomy may be recommended in cases of:
• Persistent mouth breathing in children
• Nasal congestion and chronic runny nose
• Frequent ear infections (otitis)
• Hearing loss and fluid accumulation in the middle ear
• Snoring or sleep apnea
• Speech delay or pronunciation problems
• Chronic adenoid inflammation resistant to treatment
When do adenoids cause problems?
Adenoids are usually active between ages 2–6 and shrink afterward. In some children, adenoids:
• Grow excessively
• Become a constant source of infection due to inflammation
• Negatively affect nearby ear and nasal structures
In such cases, surgery becomes necessary.
How is the surgery performed?
• Performed under general anesthesia
• Adenoid tissue is removed using specialized oral instruments
• No external incision is made
• Procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes
• Child can go home a few hours later or the next day
Recovery
• Mild throat pain or discomfort may occur
• Soft, warm foods recommended for the first days
• Avoid strenuous activity for 1 week
• Full recovery within 5–7 days
• Breathing improves, snoring and ear problems decrease
Benefits of adenoidectomy
• Restores nasal breathing
• Improves sleep quality and overall development
• Reduces speech and hearing problems
• Prevents fluid buildup in the middle ear and otitis
• Enhances overall quality of life for the child
FAQ
1. Does removing adenoids weaken immunity?
• No. Other lymphoid tissues compensate, maintaining overall immune function.
2. At what age can surgery be done?
• Usually recommended after age 2. Earlier if severe breathing difficulty occurs.
3. Is the surgery painful?
• No pain during surgery. Mild throat discomfort may occur afterward but subsides quickly.
