tonsillectomy

Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the palatine tonsils, two small lymphoid organs located at the back of the throat. It is usually performed under general anesthesia and is most commonly done in children, though adults may also undergo the procedure. The operation is indicated for recurrent or chronic tonsillitis, obstructive sleep-disordered breathing or sleep apnea due to enlarged tonsils, a history of peritonsillar abscess, persistent throat infections with significant symptoms, or suspicion of malignancy.

The procedure involves removal of both palatine tonsils through the mouth. It is performed under general anesthesia. Techniques include cold steel dissection, microdebrider and suction cautery, electrocautery, ultrasonic devices, or coblation; hemostasis is achieved by ligature, cautery, or devices.

Recovery typically involves several days of pain and a 1- to 2-week recovery period. Common complications: postoperative bleeding (primary within 24 hours, or secondary around days 5–10), dehydration due to pain, infection, reaction to anesthesia; rare complications include velopharyngeal insufficiency or injury to surrounding structures. Pain management with acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen is common; hydration and soft foods advised.

Outcomes and alternatives: Tonsillectomy reduces throat infections in many children, but the impact varies. For sleep-disordered breathing, tonsillectomy or tonsillectomy with adenoidectomy may improve symptoms. Alternatives include watchful waiting or partial tonsil removal (tonsillotomy) in selected cases to lower bleeding risk. The procedure is generally safe when performed by trained surgeons, though bleeding remains the most common serious complication.