At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, we understand that surgical procedures such as tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy can be concerning for patients and their families. Our experienced ENT surgeons specialize in performing these procedures with precision, care, and a focus on patient safety and comfort.

Procedure Overview:

• Tonsillectomy: Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils, which are two small glands located in the back of the throat. This procedure may be recommended for patients who experience recurrent tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils), sleep-disordered breathing due to enlarged tonsils, or other complications such as difficulty swallowing or breathing.
• Adenoidectomy: Adenoidectomy involves the removal of the adenoids, which are small glands located at the back of the nasal cavity. This procedure may be recommended for patients with chronic or recurrent infections of the adenoids, nasal congestion or obstruction, or related complications such as ear infections or sinusitis.

Indications for Surgery:

• Recurrent Tonsillitis: Patients who experience frequent episodes of tonsillitis (typically seven or more episodes in one year, or five or more episodes in each of the preceding two years) may benefit from tonsillectomy to reduce the frequency and severity of infections.
• Enlarged Tonsils or Adenoids: Enlarged tonsils or adenoids can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, snoring, sleep disturbances, nasal congestion, chronic mouth breathing, and recurrent ear infections, among others.
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy may be recommended as part of the treatment plan for pediatric patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or sleep-disordered breathing due to airway obstruction.

Surgical Technique:

• Tonsillectomy: The tonsils are removed through the mouth using a surgical instrument (e.g., scalpel, electrocautery, coblation) under general anesthesia. The procedure typically takes less than one hour, and patients are usually able to go home the same day.
• Adenoidectomy: Adenoidectomy may be performed through the mouth or via endoscopic techniques using a small camera (endoscope) inserted through the nose. The adenoids are removed using surgical instruments under general anesthesia, and the procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.

Recovery and Postoperative Care:

• After surgery, patients may experience throat pain, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, or mild bleeding from the surgical site. Pain medications, cold compresses, and a soft diet may help alleviate discomfort.
• Rest and hydration are important during the recovery period. Patients should avoid strenuous activities, spicy foods, and irritants such as cigarette smoke.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing progress and address any concerns. Most patients can return to school or work within one to two weeks after surgery, depending on individual recovery.

Potential Risks and Complications:

• Like any surgical procedure, tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy carry potential risks and complications, including bleeding, infection, anesthesia-related complications, and changes in voice or taste sensation. Your ENT surgeon will discuss these risks with you before surgery.

 

What is the purpose of a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy?

Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are surgical procedures performed to remove the tonsils and adenoids, respectively. These procedures may be recommended to address recurrent infections, sleep-disordered breathing, or other related issues.

 

How long does the surgery take?

The duration of tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy surgeries varies but typically ranges from 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the individual case and surgical technique.

 

Is the surgery performed under general anesthesia?

Yes, both tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are performed under general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety during the procedure.

 

What can I expect during the recovery period?

Recovery from tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy involves managing throat pain, staying hydrated, and gradually reintroducing a normal diet. Most patients can resume normal activities within one to two weeks.

 

Are there any long-term effects of tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy?

Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are generally safe procedures with few long-term effects. Some patients may experience changes in voice or taste sensation, but these effects are usually temporary.

 

When should I seek medical attention after surgery?

Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience severe pain, persistent bleeding, difficulty breathing, or any other concerning symptoms after surgery.

At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, our ENT surgeons are committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care for patients undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. We prioritize patient safety, comfort, and optimal outcomes, and we are here to support you every step of the way throughout your surgical journey.