Adenoidectomy

BACKGROUND

The adenoid tissue is tissue, which is very similar to tonsil tissue. It is located behind the nose and between the openings for the Eustachian tubes. These Eustachian tubes ventilate the middle ears into the back of the throat. Because of this location, adenoid tissue can cause a number of problems: It can block the nose and create difficulty breathing through the nose, especially in young children. It can cause abnormal function of the Eustachian tubes, leading to repeated ear infections. Also, the adenoid tissue can become infected and cause discolored purulent nasal drainage. In young children, it is frequently difficult to determine whether recurrent episodes of discolored purulent nasal drainage are due to sinus infections or infections of the adenoid tissue.

The adenoid tissue does not serve a purpose in fighting infection. At some point, this tissue was probably important in helping us fight off infection; however, it is now more of a problem than a benefit.

Infections involving the adenoid tissue frequently respond to antibiotic therapy; however, when the frequency of the infections increases substantially, or the adenoid tissue is felt to contribute to upper airway obstruction or ear infections, it becomes necessary to consider removing the tissue.

The benefit of Adenoidectomy is relief of upper airway obstruction or decrease in infections. As for the risk of the procedure, there is a very small risk of bleeding within 24 hours of surgery. If this occurs, it will usually stop by itself.

PROCEDURE:

Typically, Adenoidectomy will be combined with another procedure such as tonsillectomy or placement of ear tubes. The Adenoidectomy itself is a procedure, which takes usually no more than 10 minutes. The tissue is removed by going through the mouth and using a curved instrument to remove this tissue from behind the nose. Bleeding is controlled at the time of surgery.

After an appropriate amount of time in the Recovery Room, the patient will be returned to you. He or She will then be observed for an appropriate period of time before being discharged. No patient will be discharged from the hospital until it is felt safe to do so.