Michael P. Martin, M.D.
Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery
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TONSILLECTOMY AND ADENOIDECTOMY
Tonsillectomy is a procedure performed for the removal of tonsils. This
is done for primarily, recurrent tonsillar infections or chronic tonsillar
infections. The indications are met for those people who have greater than
three episodes of tonsillitis documented each year for several years, or more
than 4-5 episodes of tonsillitis in one 12 month period.
This procedure is done under general anesthetic with intubations. Primary
are for bleeding, which is not usually a significant problem and occurs
post-operatively in 1-4%, with usually no more than 1% of those requiring
re-operation and anesthesia to control the bleeding. This is also more common
in children to have to use anesthesia to control any bleeding that occurs
post operatively, due to inability to cooperate after the initial procedure.
Pain is quite significant for 5-10 days, depending on the individual, and
is usually associated with ear discomfort as well. Pain medications are utilized.
The most significant consideration post operatively is to follow up for
any bleeding what so ever, and to make sure the child or adolescent drinks
the appropriate amount of fluids required.
Weight loss is a common association with this procedure, due to the difficulty
with taking enough nutrition in the immediate post operative period.
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