| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | Surgical removal of the tonsils. |
| Alternative Names | Tonsils removal |
| Description | Tonsil glands serve as agents against infections. However, in some people, particularly in children with larger tonsils, these glands can perform less efficiently and cause frequent throat and ear infections or obstruct breathing. In these cases, surgery to remove the tonsils is of benefit. Under general anesthesia, the ear-nose-throat (ENT) surgeon holds the mouth open using a mouth gag to expose the tonsils. The tonsils are then removed by being cut away with an instrument or a cautery (burning instrument). Bleeding is controlled, and the cut heals naturally without stitches. |
| Indications | Tonsillectomy is advisable when tonsillitis attacks are so frequent or severe that they affect a child's general health or interfere with school, hearing, or breathing. However, some physicians believe tonsillectomies are done more often than necessary, so a second opinion should be obtained when there is any doubt. Specifically, the guidelines for surgery are: 7 or more episodes of tonsillitis in one year 5 or more episodes per year over a 2-year period Severe tonsillitis Tonsillitis that is not responding to antibiotics An abscess in the tonsils Grossly asymmetric tonsils Tonsillectomy is advised if the tonsils are enlarged and obstructing access to the adenoid during an adenoidectomy operation, or the physician suspects the presence of a tonsil tumor . |
| Risks | In addition to the risks associated with surgery under general anesthesia, in rare instances, post surgical bleeding can go unnoticed and cause serious consequences. Frequent swallowing may be a sign of bleeding from tonsils. Other risks include injury to the uvula (soft palate). |
| Expectations after surgery | In most cases, the surgery clears problems immediately. After surgery, the number of throat infections is reduced, but not completely eliminated. |
| Convalescence | Tonsillectomy is usually done on an outpatient basis, with the patient returning home the same day as the surgery. Only rarely are patients observed overnight in the hospital and return home the day after the surgery. Complete recovery can take 2 weeks. Expect some throat and ear pain in the first days following surgery. The use of ice packs to relieve pain may be used, although sucking on an ice cube or ice cream may provide adequate comfort. In addition, pain-relief medication may be prescribed. During recovery, it is recommended to eat soft, easy-to-swallow food and to drink a lot of cold fluids. The use of humidifier at home can also bring some comfort. Your child may experience alternating "good and bad" days for 2 weeks after surgery. It is a good idea to keep your child away from crowds or ill people for 7 days, since the throat is highly susceptible to infections during this period. |
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