Adenoid Removal Surgery
Adenoids are actually glands that are located between your nasal airway and the back of your throat. Adenoid removal is a surgery that is done to take out the adenoid glands. Very often, adenoid removal is done along with a tonsillectomy, surgery to remove the tonsils. Adenoid removal is also called adenoidectomy.
Steps in the surgery
- Before adenoid removal surgery begins, your child will be given general anesthesia. This very well means that they will be unconscious and unable to feel any kind of pain associated with the surgery.
- The surgeon (one who is operating) will insert a small instrument into your child’s mouth to prop it open.
- Then the surgeon will remove the adenoid glands using a curette or a microdebrider.
- Some surgeons may not remove the adenoids, instead they’ll cauterize them.
- The bleeding can be controlled with the help of a packing material that absorbs blood, and with cauterization.
So, when actually is adenoidectomy recommended?
It is when the enlarged adenoids are blocking your child’s airway. This may be suspected when the child:
- Has a problem while breathing through his or her nose
- Has episodes of breathing issues during sleep
- Snores a lot
Adenoidectomy may be also recommended if your child has chronic or recurring bouts of tonsillitis.
The adenoids usually shrink as children reach their adolescence. You would rarely see adults needing adenoidectomy.
Things to be noted before the procedure
- About a week before the surgery, you should note that you are not supposed to give your child any kind of medicine that
Adenoid Removal Recovery
makes it hard for their blood to clot, unless their doctor/ medical practitioner tells you it’s alright. Here are the two most commonly given: Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and Aspirin.
- You need to ask your the doctor what medicines your child is supposed to take on the day of the surgery.
- Remember: the day before the surgery, your child should have nothing to eat or drink after midnight. This even includes water.
- On the day of the surgery, you should give your child the medicine they are supposed to take.
After adenoid removal surgery your child can be brought home on the same day. For complete recovery, it takes about 1 to 2 weeks. During this time ensure that he gets the required rest and nutrition.
