An overview of Tonsillectomy
A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the tonsils. It is typically performed to treat conditions such as recurring tonsillitis, complications from enlarged tonsils, or other rare diseases of the tonsils. Before the procedure, your doctor may require tests or bloodwork to ensure that you are healthy enough for surgery and to tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs. In some cases, a sleep study (polysomnography) may be ordered if a tonsillectomy is intended to treat obstructive sleep apnea or other obstructions of the airway. This test helps evaluate the severity of sleep apnea and the effectiveness of the proposed treatment.
What is Tonsillectomy used for?
A tonsillectomy is used for the surgical removal of the tonsils, which are two oval-shaped pads of tissue at the back of the throat. It is typically performed for sleep-disordered breathing, recurring or severe tonsillitis, complications of enlarged tonsils, bleeding of the tonsils, and other rare diseases of the tonsils. It may also be recommended if bacterial infections causing tonsillitis don't improve with antibiotic treatment, an infection results in a collection of pus behind a tonsil, or if there are complications from enlarged tonsils such as difficulty breathing or disrupted breathing during sleep.
How to prepare for Tonsillectomy?
Prior to a tonsillectomy, you or your child will receive instructions from the hospital on how to prepare. This may include providing information about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements taken regularly, personal or family history of adverse reactions to anesthetics, personal or family history of bleeding disorders, and known allergies or negative reactions to medications, such as antibiotics. You may be asked to stop taking certain medications or adjust dosages several days before the surgery. The doctor may also provide specific instructions regarding diet and activity restrictions during the recovery process.
How are Tonsillectomy results reported?
The results of a tonsillectomy are typically reported in terms of the patient's recovery process, pain management, and any potential complications that may arise during the healing process. The recovery time for a tonsillectomy is usually at least 10 days to two weeks, and patients can expect to experience moderate to severe pain in the throat, pain in the ears, neck or jaw, nausea, fever, bad breath, and swelling of the tongue or throat. The results of the surgery may also be evaluated based on whether the patient's symptoms have been effectively treated, such as recurring tonsillitis or obstructive sleep apnea. The doctor may provide instructions on managing pain and promoting a good recovery, as well as monitoring for potential complications like bleeding during healing or infection.