Tonsillectomy is the surgical resection of the palatine tonsils, which are oval tissue pads at the back of the throat. Tonsillectomy is commonly performed to remove tonsils due to infection and inflammation. The procedure is performed for various reasons, including chronic or severe tonsillitis, breathing issues that occur while sleeping, and bleeding of the tonsils.
What is tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is a disorder arising from inflammation of the tonsils. The tonsils are the immune system’s natural defence mechanism against viruses or germs entering the mouth, so they are at increased risk of inflammation, infection, and irritation.
An ENT specialist might recommend a tonsillectomy to help resolve recurrent tonsillitis. It may also be considered for bacterial-related tonsillitis that fails to improve with antibiotics. An infection can also lead to the build-up of pus behind the tonsil that fails to resolve with surgical drainage or medical management. In these specific instances, a tonsillectomy remains a curative option.
The Trouble with Enlarged Tonsils
The tonsils may increase in size after ongoing, repetitive infections. Therefore, an ENT surgeon may advise a tonsillectomy to resolve complications from enlarged tonsils, which lead to:
- Issues with breathing
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
The Tonsillectomy Procedure
A tonsillectomy removes the tonsils using a scalpel or other specialised surgical tools. The surgical approach is unique and varies in each case, depending on the patient. No matter the surgical technique decided upon, the aim remains the same- to remove or destroy tissue and stop excessive bleeding.
Adverse effects of the procedure may include throat pain, bad breath, swollen throat or tongue, and the sensation that something is stuck in the throat. These are temporary and should subside in time. Your ENT surgeon will guide you through what to expect before and after the procedure and provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to enable a smooth recovery.
FAQ
Are there any risks?
Like any surgery, although rare, there may be risks such as:
- Adverse reaction to the anaesthetic
- Swollen tongue
- Bleeding during the procedure
- Bleeding during the recovery phase
- Infection
What are the results of a tonsillectomy?
The procedure aims to minimise the frequency of bacterial infections and strep throat. It is also done to help improve breathing due to complications from enlarged tonsils.
Is a tonsillectomy painful?
It can be painful after the procedure, but there are medications to help alleviate pain.