Adenoidectomy – The removal of adenoid glands
Adeniodectomy is the treatment for the removal of adenoid glands which may become a hindrance in breathing. The adenoids are a clump of tissue which is located at the back of the nose (nasopharynx). The tonsils are located on the either side of the throat.
Adenoidectomy is generally done with tonsillectomy and most of them are done on children as the adenoids normally shrink as children reach adolescence and adults rarely need adenoidectomy. The adenoid removal may sometimes be questionable as one may wonder what function they serve and would it affect the body functions. The adenoids and tonsils are mostly composed of lymphoid tissue which helps in antibody production. The studies to clarify the importance of tonsils have never noticed an adverse effect on its removal. It is clear by the studies that the tonsils and/or the adenoids become “dysfunctional” and are more of a liability than an asset.
This surgical procedure is done for a number of well-established valid reasons like blockage of the airway when the glands get enlarged. This results in moth-breathing, snoring or sleep apnea (blockage of breathe during sleep). Inability to breathe through nose causes a reduction in smell and taste. Chronic ear infection or recurrent infections or chronic fluids may also be the reason. Chronic or recurrent sinus infections also known as rhinosinusitis and accumulation of nasal secretions can be caused by enlarged adenoid glands. Many surgeons feel that an adenoidectomy is the most appropriate surgical procedure for young children with severe sinus problems.
The procedure of adenoid removal is generally administering anesthesia and curetting the tissue from the back of the nose. Either a microdebrider or electocautery is used. With the advent of special cautery devices, the tissue is sealed using a heated device instead of removing them and the low-grade bleeding is eliminated. The procedure usually takes 5-15 minutes.
The risks associated with adenoid removal are usually minor and complications are rare. The serious anesthetic complication is rare and so is bleeding. It can cause 7-10 days of bad breath and some children may have “velopharyngeal insufficiency” meaning that sounds or liquids can escape up the back of the nose affecting speech and/or swallowing. It is advised that some children should not undergo adenoidectomy – because of their special anatomy.
Post-operatively, some irritation through stiff or sore neck and activities like playing and swimming are checked. Normal diet can be consumed and check up is done after 2-4 weeks to ensure normal function and healing. One can always get more knowledge and awareness by watching top medical videos and reading online articles.
About the Author
Adenoid removal is the surgical removal of the adenoids. They may be removed for several reasons, including impaired breathing through the nose and chronic infections or earaches. Find out about Adenoidectomy and other top medical videos from our website.
