The adenoids are part of the body's lymphatic system, which helps defend the body against infection. Adenoids sit at the back of the nose and are similar to tonsils. Sometimes, they become enlarged. This can occur naturally as the baby develops in the mother's womb or it can be caused by long-term inflammation. When this occurs, the adenoids may need removed. This is usually done at the same time as a tonsillectomy, or removal of the tonsils.
Virtua has board-certified otolaryngologists who specialize in performing minimally invasive procedures such as adenoid removal. And because children are under anesthesia during the surgery, Virtua's pediatric anesthesiologists are on staff 24 hours a day.
In addition, Virtua provides child life specialists who help children and their families prepare for hospital procedures. The specialists uses techniques like therapeutic play activities to help make children feel more comfortable.
Definition
Adenoid removal is surgery to take out the adenoid glands. These glands are located between the airway you breathe into through your nose and the back of your throat. Often, adenoid removal is done at the same time as a tonsillectomy, surgery to remove the tonsils. Adenoid removal is also called adenoidectomy.
Most adenoidectomies are done on children.
Alternative Names
Adenoidectomy; Removal of adenoid glands
Description
Your child will be given general anesthesia before surgery. This means they will be unconscious and unable to feel pain.
- The surgeon will insert a small instrument into your child’s mouth to prop it open.
- The surgeon will remove the adenoid glands with a curette (a spoon-shaped medical device) or a microdebrider (a medical device used to cut away soft tissue).
- Some surgeons may cauterize the adenoids (seal the tissue using a heated device) instead of removing them.
- Bleeding will be controlled with packing material, which will absorb blood, and with cauterization.
Your child will stay in the recovery room after surgery until they are awake and can breathe easily, cough, and swallow. Most patients can go home several hours after this surgery.
Risks
Risks for any anesthesia are:
- Reactions to medicines
- Breathing problems
Risks for any surgery are: