Tonsillectomyadenoidectomy

Tonsillectomyadenoidectomy, often abbreviated T&A, is the combined surgical removal of the palatine tonsils and the adenoids. It is most commonly performed in children but is also used in adults for recurrent throat infections, nasal obstruction from adenoid hypertrophy, and sleep-disordered breathing attributable to enlarged tissue in the throat.

Indications include recurrent or chronic tonsillitis, otitis media with effusion, nasal obstruction from enlarged adenoids, chronic sinusitis, and pediatric obstructive sleep apnea or habitual snoring due to oropharyngeal obstruction.

Contraindications include active infection at the time of surgery, significant bleeding disorders, certain severe illnesses, and contraindications to general anesthesia.

The operation is performed under general anesthesia. Palatine tonsils and adenoids are removed using cold dissection, electrocautery, coblation, or similar methods; hemostasis is achieved, and the procedure is commonly done on an outpatient basis in 20–60 minutes.

Postoperative care emphasizes hydration and pain control with acetaminophen, and sometimes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as advised by the clinician. A soft diet is recommended; most children resume normal activities within 7–14 days.

Risks include bleeding (primary within 24 hours and secondary around days 5–10), infection, dehydration, and rare anesthesia complications. Most patients experience fewer throat infections and improved breathing or hearing in select cases, with symptoms typically improving within weeks to months.