Tonsil and Adenoid Surgeries

Tonsil and adenoid surgeries are typically performed when certain health issues recur or significantly impact the patient’s quality of life. These surgeries are conducted only when necessary and upon the recommendation of an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. Below are the conditions that may require surgery:

Conditions Requiring Adenoid Surgery

Breathing Problems:

Conditions such as mouth breathing, snoring, or sleep apnea are caused by enlarged adenoids blocking the back of the nasal passage.

Middle Ear Problems:

Recurrent middle ear infections (otitis media) or fluid accumulation in the ear (otitis media with effusion).

Sinusitis and Infections:

Chronic or recurrent sinusitis or adenoid infections.

Developmental Issues in Children:

Long-term breathing problems in children lead to facial and jaw deformities or growth and developmental delays.

Conditions Requiring Tonsil Surgery

Recurrent Tonsillitis:

• Seven or more infections in one year.
• Five or more infections per year for two consecutive years.
• Three or more infections per year for three consecutive years.

Chronic Tonsillitis:

Persistent inflammation of the tonsils, causing symptoms like bad breath and difficulty swallowing.

Tonsil Abscess (Peritonsillar Abscess):

Abscesses that do not improve with medication or recur frequently.

Airway Obstruction:

Excessive enlargement of the tonsils causing snoring, sleep apnea, or mouth breathing.

Suspected Tumor:

Surgery may be performed if a malignancy is suspected in the tonsils.

When Surgery is Not Performed

Surgery may be delayed or not recommended in certain situations, such as:

• Patients with bleeding disorders.
• During an acute infection (e.g., when the patient has a high fever).
• Individuals with uncontrolled chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes).

Assessment by Age Group

Children:

Children are the most common candidates, as adenoid enlargement and recurrent tonsil infections are more prevalent in this age group.

Adults:

Surgery in adults is typically reserved for severe conditions such as airway obstruction, abscesses, or suspected tumours.

In all cases, the decision to proceed with surgery is made following a detailed examination, diagnostic tests, and a thorough evaluation by the doctor.