Understanding Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy

Why tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are done

You may have your tonsils, adenoids, or both removed for reasons such as:

• Infection of the tonsils (tonsillitis) that keeps coming back.

• Repeated infections of the throat.

• Enlargement of the tonsils or adenoids that affects breathing during sleep. This causes a condition called obstructive sleep apnea.

• Suspected cancer of the throat.

Tonsillectomy can remove part or all of the tonsils.

How tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are done

This surgery is done in a hospital or surgery center. It often takes less than an hour.

• An intravenous (I.V.) line is put into a vein in your arm or hand. This gives you fluids and medicines.

• You are given general anesthesia to put you into a deep sleep during the procedure.

• A special device is used to hold your mouth open. A tube is put down into your throat to help keep your airway open during the procedure.

• The doctor uses surgical tools to take out the tonsils and possibly the adenoids.

• After you are awake and recovered from the anesthesia, you are sent home.

Risks of tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy

Risks include:

• Bleeding.

• Electric burns of the mouth and lip.

• Infection.

• Injury to the lips or teeth.

• Numbness of the tongue.

• Nausea and vomiting.

• Risks of anesthesia.

• The need for a second surgery.

• Voice changes.