What Is Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy?

In Which Cases Are Tonsillectomy And Adenoidectomy Necessary?

Among Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) diseases, one of the most frequently performed surgical interventions is tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. These two procedures are commonly known as “tonsil and adenoid surgery.” Medically, tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy may come to the fore, especially in the pediatric age group, in evaluations related to breathing and infection problems. In this article, we will discuss in detail why these procedures, most frequently recommended by ENT specialists, are performed, in which cases they are necessary, and what to expect afterwards.

What Is The Tonsil? What Is The Adenoid?

Tonsils, commonly known as tonsils, are lymphoid tissues located on both sides of the oral cavity. They function as part of the immune system.

The adenoid, also known as the adenoid tissue, is another lymphoid tissue located at the back of the nose in the nasopharyngeal area. Like the tonsils, it plays a protective role against infections during childhood. However, it is expected to shrink over time and its function to decrease.

Why Are Tonsillectomy And Adenoidectomy Performed?

Tonsillectomy (tonsil surgery) and adenoidectomy (adenoid surgery) are usually performed together by ENT specialists, and the following conditions are among the main indications:

Indications For Tonsillectomy (Reasons For Tonsil Surgery):

1. Recurrent Tonsil Infections:

• 7 or more times in the last 1 year,
• 5 or more times per year in the last 2 years,
• 3 or more times per year in the last 3 years, with tonsillitis attacks that occurred and were treated with antibiotics.

2. Peritonsillar Abscess:

Collection of pus around the tonsil is often recurrent and is an indication for urgent tonsillectomy.

3. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):

Excessive enlargement of the tonsils blocking the airway and causing breathing pauses during sleep. It is one of the most common surgical indications in children.

4. Difficulty Swallowing And Nutritional Problems:

Tonsils being large enough to interfere with eating and swallowing.

5. Suspicious Masses Suggestive Of Malignancy:

Asymmetry in the tonsils, unilateral enlargement, or the presence of suspicious lesions.

Conditions Related To Adenoidectomy

1. Nasal Congestion And Sleeping With The Mouth Open:
Impaired nasal breathing due to enlargement of the adenoid tissue and persistent mouth breathing.

2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome:
Breathing pauses during sleep, restless sleep, night sweats, and snoring.

3. Recurrent Middle Ear Infections And Serous Otitis:
Ear problems due to blockage of the Eustachian tube by the adenoid tissue.

4. Impaired Facial And Jaw Development:
Long-term mouth breathing may lead to a characteristic facial appearance in children known as “adenoid facies.”

5. Loss Of Smell And Taste, Chronic Sinusitis:
Impaired sinus drainage due to blockage caused by the adenoid tissue.

Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are among the surgical methods that may be considered in suitable patients. These surgeries, for which a decision should be made after a detailed evaluation by an ENT specialist, can significantly improve quality of life in children and, in some cases, in adults; instead, statements regarding the process should be addressed as “evaluations related to the process may vary depending on the individual situation.” If your child frequently has tonsillitis, snores at night, or has persistent nasal congestion, an evaluation of the tonsil and adenoid tissues by a specialist may be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tonsillectomy And Adenoidectomy