Adenoidectomy

Adenoids are glands that are situated behind the nose, above the roof of the mouth. They resemble tiny tissue lumps and have a crucial function in young children. Adenoids are a component of the immune system and aid in defending the body against germs and viruses. Around the age of 5 to 7, children’s adenoids start to diminish, and by the time they reach adolescence, they may almost entirely disappear.

Adenoidectomy

• Surgery to remove the adenoid glands is known as an adenoidectomy or adenoid removal.
• Adenoids aid in the body’s defence against viruses and bacteria, but they can occasionally swell, expand, or develop a chronic infection. Infections, allergies, or other factors may be to blame for this. Additionally, some kids may be born with adenoids that are unusually big.
• The growth of a child’s adenoids might be problematic since they can partially obstruct the child’s airway. When this occurs, kids may experience breathing issues, ear infections, or other issues that might result in snoring or more severe difficulties like sleep apnea (stopping breathing) at night.
• Additionally, sinus infections, congestion, and chronic (long-term) nasal discharge may be present. The recurrence (return) of ear infections and persistent fluid in the ear, which can cause temporary hearing loss, can also be impacted by enlarged adenoids.
• Surgery is frequently required to remove the glands. The ability to fight diseases is unaffected by their removal, according to research.
• Most children who get an adenoidectomy are between the ages of 1 and 7. The adenoids start to diminish by the age of seven, and in adults they are regarded as a vestigial organ (a remnant with no purpose).

How does a physician decide whether a child requires an adenoidectomy?

• You should see a doctor if your child experiences breathing difficulties, ear infections, or recurring sinus infections and you suspect an issue with the adenoids. The doctor will inspect your child’s adenoids either with an x-ray or by inserting a small camera into your child’s nose after getting a health history.
• Your child’s adenoids may need to be removed if they are swollen and based on the symptoms your child is experiencing.
• An ENT surgeon would typically do an adenoidectomy, which is a simple, quick treatment, as an outpatient procedure. For the procedure, your child will be given general anaesthesia.
• While the child is unconscious, the surgeon will use a retractor to expand the mouth wide. The adenoids will then be removed using one of many methods. To help halt the bleeding, the doctor could employ an electrical device.
• Once the anaesthetic has worn off, your kid will be transferred to a recovery room. The majority of kids will be able to go home the day after their surgery.

What risks  might an adenoidectomy bring about?

Risks around Adenoidectomy are uncommon but include the following:

• Refusal to treat underlying respiratory issues, ear infections, or nasal drainage.
• A lot of blood (very rare).
• Vocal quality changes with time.
• Infection.
• Risks associated with using anaesthesia
• Before you consent to the treatment, your doctor should fully explain all of the dangers of adenoidectomy and address all of your concerns.