Adenoid surgery, also known as adenoidectomy, is simple, has an average duration of 30 minutes, and should be performed under general anesthesia. However, although this is a quick and simple procedure, full recovery lasts on average 2 weeks, it is important that the person stays at rest during this period, avoid places with high concentration of people and use the remedies indicated by the doctor.
The adenoid is a set of lymphatic tissue located in the area between the throat and nose that is responsible for the recognition of viruses and bacteria and the production of antibodies, thus protecting the body. However, adenoid vegetation can grow heavily, swell and swell and cause symptoms such as frequent rhinitis and sinusitis, snoring, and medication-impeding breathing difficulties, requiring surgery. See what the symptoms of adenoids are.
- Adenoid surgery is indicated when the size of the adenoid does not decrease even after the use of medications indicated by the doctor or when it causes the appearance of infection and recurrent inflammation of the ear.
- Nose and throat.
- Loss of hearing or smell.
- And difficult breathing.
In addition, surgery may also be indicated in cases of difficulty swallowing and sleep apnea, in which the person temporarily stops breathing during sleep, causing snoring. Learn how to identify sleep apnea.
Adenoid surgery is performed on the person with an empty head for at least 8 hours, as general anesthesia is required. The procedure lasts an average of 30 minutes and involves the removal of adenoid vegetation orally, without the need for cuts on the skin. In some cases, in addition to adenoid surgery, tonsil and ear surgery may be recommended as they also tend to become infected.
Adenoid surgery can be performed from age 6, but in the most severe cases, such as sleep apnea, where breathing stops during sleep, your doctor may suggest surgery before that age.
The person may return home after a few hours, usually until the effect of anesthesia wears off, or overnight for the doctor to monitor the patient’s progress.
Adenoid surgery does not interfere with the immune system, as there are other defense mechanisms in the body. In addition, adenoid growth is again rare, but in the case of infants, the adenoid continues to grow and, as a result, its size may increase over time.
Adenoid surgery is a safe procedure, however, like any other type of surgery, it carries certain risks, such as bleeding, infections, complications of anesthesia, vomiting, fever and swelling of the face, which must be reported immediately to the doctor.
Although adenoid surgery is a simple and quick procedure, recovery after surgery takes about 2 weeks and during this period is important:
During recovery, the person may experience pain, especially during the first 3 days, so the doctor may prescribe pain relievers, such as acetaminophen. Also, you should go to the hospital if you have a fever higher than 38 degrees Celsius or bleed from your mouth or nose.
Watch the video below and learn what to eat during the recovery period after adenoid and tonsil surgery: