An adenoidectomy is surgery to remove the adenoids, which are soft tissues located in the back of the throat and are part of the lymphatic system. This procedure is commonly performed in children and is often recommended if the child experiences frequent swelling and infection of the adenoids, which can affect breathing, hearing, and sleep.
Swollen adenoids that have become infected can cause obstructive sleep apnea in children, which is a type of sleep disorder that is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep and sleep interruptions due to breathing issues. In addition to sleep apnea, swollen adenoids can also cause frequent ear infections and sinusitis, as the swelling of the tissues can disrupt fluid drainage.
If you suspect a problem with your child’s adenoids, the child may need to have this minor outpatient surgery to correct the issue. Let’s talk about what goes on during adenoidectomy surgery in children, and where you can go in Georgetown and Greater Austin for outstanding ENT (ear, nose, and throat) services for your whole family.
Pediatric Adenoidectomy Surgery Procedure
Surgery to remove the adenoids is an outpatient procedure and can take as little as 30 minutes to complete. The procedure is usually performed by an otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor).
For the procedure, your child will be placed under anesthesia. The child will be asleep for the duration of the surgery and will not feel any pain.
To start the surgery, the ENT surgeon will keep your child’s mouth open with a retractor. This device locks in place and allows the doctor to remove the adenoids through the mouth. The surgeon may use an electrical cauterizing unit to cauterize the soft tissue down to the base.
After the adenoids are successfully shaved down, the surgery is over. The doctor removes the retractor, and your child will be wheeled into the recovery room.
Your child will eventually wake up from the anesthesia and be under careful observation. You and your child will be ready to leave the recovery room after the child is confirmed to be able to breathe, cough, and swallow easily.
What Is Recovery Like After an Adenoidectomy?
Recovery from an adenoidectomy usually takes one to two weeks. A stuffy nose, nose discharge, a low-grade fever, and bad breath are common in the first week after surgery.
Pediatric Adenoidectomy in Georgetown, TX
Your child deserves to be able to breathe and sleep well, and to remain happy and healthy. If your child’s breathing or sleeping is making their life difficult, don’t hesitate to consult an expert Georgetown ENT doctor for an evaluation and possible pediatric adenoidectomy surgery.
Dr. Scott Franklin is a highly experienced ENT in Georgetown who frequently treats pediatric patients who have swollen or infected adenoids, enlarged tonsils, or ear infections. Dr. Franklin regularly performs adenoidectomy surgery with great success. You and your child should be able to return to the comfort of home within a few hours after the surgery.
To find out more about adenoidectomy surgery in children or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Franklin, call our Georgetown ENT clinic today at (512) 869-0604 or fill out our convenient appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping your child breathe and sleep better!
