Tonsillectomy in Children
Why Do Children Need a Tonsillectomy?
A tonsillectomy is a surgery that removes tonsils to reduce recurring sore throats, recurrent earaches and other symptoms caused by swollen tonsils.
An ear nose and throat specialist might recommend tonsillectomy for various reasons, including chronic inflammation or infection, recurrent sore throats, sleep apnea, and difficulty breathing or swallowing.
A primary care provider or ENT specialist may recommend the surgery for those who experience many episodes of throat infections within one year.
What is The Purpose of the Surgery?
A tonsillectomy aims to remove enlarged or inflamed tonsils to reduce sore throats, ear infections, and other symptoms caused by swollen tonsils.
Should I Do Anything to Prepare for the Surgery?
Your ENT specialist will help you and your child prepare for surgery. General guidelines for surgery include:
- Getting any necessary blood tests and imaging.
- Discussing any allergies or medications with your doctor.
- Refraining from eating or drinking for at least eight hours before the procedure.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Surgery?
Possible complications associated with a tonsillectomy include pain and bleeding, infection, delayed healing, scarring of the throat, temporary voice changes and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Potential risks include infection, delayed healing and adverse reactions to anesthesia; however, most patients improve their health post-surgery.
What Should I Expect During the Recovery Process?
Recovery time varies depending on the procedure's extent but generally lasts around two weeks.
During this time, patients are encouraged to rest and drink plenty of fluids while avoiding strenuous activities.
Pain medication may be prescribed to ease discomfort during recovery. It is also essential to avoid contact with sports or activities that put a strain on the neck area until it completely heals.
Recovery time can vary but usually lasts around two weeks and involves rest, drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding strenuous activities and taking pain medication if necessary.
Are There Any Potential Side Effects of the Surgery?
Possible side effects can include dry mouth due to lack of saliva production (which should return over time), difficulty swallowing at first due to swelling in the throat, numb throat due to nerve damage caused by the removal of their tonsils and bad breath (halitosis). However, most patients see an overall improvement in their health after having a successful tonsillectomy.
The Children's Hospital of San Antonio - Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic
The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Clinic provides comprehensive services for children and adolescents experiencing a variety of ear, nose, and throat disorders.
The Children's Hospital of San Antonio
The Children's Hospital of San Antonio is a leader in providing comprehensive, coordinated care for children from birth to age 18. Our caring teams are committed to providing high-quality service in a comfortable and safe setting.
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