Adenoid Surgery: Caring For Your Child After the Operation!

Adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the adenoid. The adenoid is a lymphoid tissue which is present on the roof of the mouth; its role is to produce antibodies to protect the body against infections. Usually the adenoid lymphoid tissue diminish during your adolescence and disappear by the time you are an adult. Respiratory and throat infections that are chronic in nature, are the main causes of infection in the adenoid lymphoid tissue.

Adenoidectomy can be performed, one of any mentioned techniques:

1. Curette technique 
2. Debrider assisted adenoidectomy 
3. Coblation assisted Adenoidctomy

Reason for the removal of adenoids
Throat infections that occur frequently can lead to the enlargement of the adenoid lymphoid tissue. When these lymphoid tissue become enlarged, it results in breathing problems and blockage of the Eustachian tubes. Blocked Eustachian tubes can cause infections in the ear which, in turn, causes severe hearing problems.

The procedure
The surgical procedure is performed under general anesthesia in an outpatient mode. The removal of the adenoid lymphoid tissue takes place through the mouth. Initially, a small instrument is put inside the mouth to keep it open. After this, the adenoids are located in the mouth, following which they are scrapped off with a curette or by applying heat to the area by the process of diathermy (a technique to stimulate circulation by heating up a part of the body with the application of localized heat currents). Once the procedure is completed, you will be discharged on the same day.

Post procedure
Post-surgery, you may experience a sore throat for a few weeks. You must drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Keeping yourself hydrated also helps relieve symptoms of post-surgical pain, if any. Oily and spicy foods should also be avoided as it may cause pain inside the mouth. Applying ice can also relieve pain symptoms. However, don’t apply ice directly wrap it in a cloth and then apply it on the neck. Do not undertake any stressful or strenuous activity for 7-10 days post-surgery to further facilitate the recovery process. Post-surgery, the risks of throat and ear infections are greatly reduced. Breathing through the nose also becomes relatively easier.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!