Adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of the adenoids.
Adenotonsillectomy, the surgical removal of the adenoids and tonsils, is typically performed on children rather than adults. This procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis with the patient under general anesthesia. There are several reasons a patient may require adenotonsillectomy, such as chronic nasal obstruction or breathing impairment, recurrent throat infections, or chronic earaches. While more common in pediatric patients, adenotonsillectomy can be performed on adults as well when medically indicated.
After surgery, pain levels tend to be low and can be prevented by consuming plenty of chilled or frozen foods. However, spicy dishes should not be eaten as they may aggravate post-operative discomfort
When tonsils are removed, adenoidectomy is often done at the same time, if indicated. The recovery period after adenoidectomy can last from a few hours up to multiple days, partly depending on the patient's age.
Removal of the adenoids, also known as an adenoidectomy, is typically not done for children younger than 6 years old. This is because the adenoids play an important role in developing the immune system during early childhood. However, the adenoids shrink and become less essential after this developmental period. So adenoidectomy tends to be reserved for older children and adults when the adenoids become enlarged or infected.
