Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A) is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils and adenoids, respectively, from the throat. The surgery is usually performed on children to alleviate recurring infections, sleep disorders, and breathing difficulties.
Indications
T&A may be recommended if your child experiences:
- Frequent tonsillitis or adenoiditis infections
- Recurring sore throats
- Sleep apnea or obstructive sleep apnea
- Chronic snoring
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids causing airflow blockage
- Recurrent ear infections or sinusitis
Procedure
The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes around 45-60 minutes. The surgeon removes the tonsils and adenoids through the mouth, without making any external incisions.
Recovery
After the surgery, your child may experience:
- Pain or discomfort that gradually improves over 2 weeks
- Bleeding or oozing from the surgery site, which usually subsides within 5-8 days
- Dehydration, which can be managed with fluids and electrolyte replacement
- Difficulty breathing, which is rare but requires immediate medical attention
Complications
Rare complications include:
- Bleeding (5%)
- Dehydration
- Difficulty breathing (swelling of the surgery site)
- Changes in speech due to altered anatomy
Post-Operative Care
To ensure a smooth recovery:
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions for pain management and medication
- Monitor for signs of bleeding or dehydration
- Avoid heavy or rough play for a specified period
- Gradually increase your child’s fluid intake and diet
Conclusion
Tonsil and adenoid removal is a common and effective surgical procedure to alleviate recurring infections, sleep disorders, and breathing difficulties in children. With proper post-operative care and monitoring, most children recover well and experience significant improvement in their quality of life.
