Adenotonsillectomy

Name: Adenotonsillectomy
Brand: Elanic Medical
Rating: 4.4 (137 reviews)

Adenotonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove both the adenoids and the tonsils, which can become necessary if the tonsils become chronically inflamed or infected.

Woman with her hand on her neck, smiling

Adenotonsillectomy Surgery at Elanic Medical in Glasgow

Adenotonsillectomy surgery, commonly known as tonsillectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the tonsils and adenoids. This procedure is usually performed on children, but it can also be performed on adults. The tonsils and adenoids are part of the body's immune system, and they help to protect the body from infections. However, in some cases, they can become infected and cause problems such as sleep apnea, snoring, and difficulty swallowing. When this happens, adenotonsillectomy can become necessary. Elanic Medical in Glasgow is excited to offer patients over 100 years of combined surgical experience, so you can trust in a truly advanced level of care when visiting our facility. If you’d like to learn more about what we can do for you, reach out to our Glasgow offices and set up your consultation today.

What Is Adenotonsillectomy Surgery?

Adenoids are small masses of tissue located in the back of the nasal cavity, while tonsils are located in the back of the throat. Adenotonsillectomy is a common procedure, often performed on children, to treat conditions such as sleep apnea, chronic tonsillitis, and recurrent ear infections.

The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about 30 to 60 minutes. During the procedure, your surgeon will remove the adenoids and tonsils using a scalpel, laser, or other surgical instrument. After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery room until you are awake and stable enough to go home.

Do I Need Adenotonsillectomy Surgery?

Adenotonsillectomy surgery is a common surgical procedure that is typically recommended for individuals who suffer from chronic or recurrent infections in these areas. Here are a few reasons why adenotonsillectomy surgery may be recommended:

Frequent infections

Individuals who experience frequent infections in the adenoids or tonsils may benefit from adenotonsillectomy surgery. This could include conditions such as tonsillitis, sleep apnea, or chronic sinusitis.

Enlarged adenoids or tonsils

If the adenoids or tonsils are significantly enlarged, it can cause difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking. Adenotonsillectomy surgery can help alleviate these symptoms.

Cancerous growths

In rare cases, cancerous growths can develop in the adenoids or tonsils. Adenotonsillectomy surgery may be recommended to remove these growths and prevent further complications.

Preparing for Your Surgery

Before undergoing an adenotonsillectomy surgery, a medical evaluation is necessary. The evaluation may include a physical examination, blood tests, and other diagnostic tests to assess the patient's overall health and determine if surgery is safe.

Your surgeon will help you understand exactly what to expect during your surgery, explaining the tools and techniques that will be used to create your results. You’ll also receive thorough aftercare instructions to help you stay comfortable after the surgery is over.

The Adenotonsillectomy Procedure

During the surgery, the surgeon removes both the adenoids and tonsils. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete and involves your surgeon using scalpel or a special tool to remove the adenoids and tonsils. In some cases, the surgeon may use a laser to remove the tissue.

Your Recovery and Aftercare

After the surgery, you will need to rest for a few hours in the recovery room. It’s common to experience some pain and discomfort in the throat area, which can be managed with pain medication. You will likely be able to return to your normal activities within one to two weeks after the surgery.

It should be noted, however, that it may take several weeks for your throat to fully heal. During this time, you’ll need to avoid certain foods and activities to prevent complications, in addition to attending follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your recovery and ensure that there are no complications.