Adenoidectomy, also known as adenoids removal, is the surgical removal of the adenoids, which are located behind the nose. It is commonly performed in children due to nasal congestion, snoring, sleep apnea, and frequent ear infections. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia through the mouth and typically takes about 15–30 minutes. Recovery after the procedure is usually rapid, and most children return to their normal daily activities within 3–5 days. Although adenoids can sometimes grow back, a second operation may occasionally be required. With proper postoperative care and regular follow-up visits to the doctor, the risk of complications is significantly minimized.
What is Adenoid Removal Surgery?
Adenoidectomy, or adenoidectomy, is the surgical removal of adenoids. It is typically performed to treat enlarged adenoids that can cause problems such as nasal congestion, recurrent adenoid inflammation, middle ear infections, or sleep apnea. Surgery is a common procedure in children, usually short, and results in a rapid recovery.
Adenoidectomy in Adults
Adenoidectomy in adults is a rarely performed procedure because adenoids usually shrink or disappear completely by puberty. However, adenoid enlargement can cause nasal congestion, snoring, and sleep apnea. If it causes frequent infections or sinus problems, surgery may be necessary. The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and the recovery process may take slightly longer in adults than in children.
Adenoidectomy in Children
In children, adenoidectomy is a frequently chosen treatment method when enlarged adenoids obstruct nasal breathing, cause frequent infections, or create middle ear problems. The surgery is generally a simple procedure performed under general anesthesia, and children are often discharged the same day. Removing the adenoids does not negatively impact children's immune systems, as other tissues in the body perform the same function, compensating for this deficiency.
Who is a suitable candidate for adenoid removal surgery?
Adenoidectomy is recommended for breathing difficulties, sleep apnea , recurrent adenoiditis, speech disorders, or infections that obstruct the airway for at least 3 months despite medical treatment.
This simple surgical procedure, which takes about 20 minutes and does not require an incision, completely removes the adenoids, and when the correct surgical technique is used, there is no risk of recurrence.
How is adenoid removal surgery performed?
Adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of adenoids that grow behind the nose, and it is usually performed in children due to breathing difficulties. snoreor it is applied due to frequently recurring infections.
Performed orally under general anesthesia, this procedure takes approximately 15-30 minutes and involves no skin incisions. Recovery is expected within a few days; patients should eat soft foods and pay attention to hygiene. The operation improves quality of life, particularly reducing respiratory and sleep problems in children.
Surgical Procedure and Methods Used
Adenoidectomy is a procedure performed through the mouth, requiring no incisions in the skin. The patient is given general anesthesia for a painless operation. The surgeon uses specialized instruments to access the adenoids and safely remove the tissue.
The methods used are as follows:
Curettage method: This is the most commonly used classic method. The adenoids are removed by scraping them away with a cutting instrument called a curette.
Electrocautery: Adenoid tissue is vaporized using thermal energy, while simultaneously controlling bleeding.
Plasma technology (coblation): Preferred due to less tissue damage and faster recovery time. This method, which operates at low temperatures, dissolves adenoid tissue.
Microdebrider: A device with a rotating head precisely shaves off the adenoids. It is particularly used in endoscopic procedures.
How long does adenoid removal surgery take?
Adenoids. The surgery itself is usually a very short procedure, lasting an average of 15 to 30 minutes. However, the total time spent in the hospital, including preparation, anesthesia administration, and recovery, can take several hours.
Most patients are discharged the same day as the surgery. The duration of the surgery depends on the size of the adenoids and whether there are other accompanying procedures (for example...).tonsillectomyand may vary depending on the surgical method used.
In what situations is adenoid removal surgery necessary?
Adenoids can enlarge during childhood, leading to various health problems. Surgery may be necessary when enlarged adenoids obstruct breathing, cause ear and sinus problems, or don’t respond to medication. In such cases, consulting an ENT specialist is important to assess the condition, recommend the right treatment approach, and determine whether adenoid removal surgery is required.
Situations in which adenoidectomy may be necessary include:
Persistent nasal congestion and mouth breathing.
Nighttime snoring and symptoms of sleep apnea (breathing pauses, restless sleep)
Frequent recurrent middle ear infections and fluid buildup in the ear.
Ear problems that lead to hearing loss or hearing problems
Sinusitis, similar complaints are long-lasting and recurrent
Difficulty eating or speech disorders due to enlarged adenoids.
