What are Adenoids and Tonsils? Do All Children Have Them?

Adenoids and tonsils are two of the defense organs located in the mouth and throat area. Adenoids, which are normally present in every child, are active during the early years of life and tend to grow. After the age of 6-7, the adenoids begin to shrink. During this period, especially in some children who start preschool and come into contact with germs, adenoids can cause problems. Inflamed and enlarged adenoids can cause nasal congestion. Mouth breathing, snoring, and even sleep apnea may occur, especially during sleep.

Adenoids also play a significant role in recurrent middle ear infections and fluid accumulation in the ears in children. Additionally, untreated adenoid enlargement leading to prolonged nasal congestion can adversely affect a child’s facial, palate, and dental development.

What are the Diseases of Adenoids and Tonsils?

The two primary diseases of the tonsil tissue are tonsil enlargements and tonsillitis.

What is Tonsil and Adenoid Enlargement, and How is it Treated?

Enlarged tonsils that can cause snoring and sleep apnea in children may be removed through surgery. This is, in fact, the definitive reason for tonsil surgery.

At What Point is the Surgery Option Considered for Tonsillitis and Adenoiditis?

Besides the enlargement of the tonsils, frequent infections of the tonsils within the same year and consecutive years can also necessitate tonsil surgery. The most effective way to decide on tonsil surgery due to frequent infections is through the examination of the tonsils by a doctor during the illness.

About the Surgery

How is surgery performed for adenoid and tonsil infections?
Adenoid and tonsil surgeries are performed under general anesthesia and through the mouth, without external incisions. In some children, both adenoid and tonsil surgeries are performed; in others, only adenoid surgery may be done, while in rare cases, tonsil surgery can be performed alone without removing the adenoids.

Adenoids can be removed directly or with the assistance of a camera using special instruments. The risk of adenoid regrowth is quite low. Tonsil surgery is performed using ‘thermal welding’ or ‘coblation’ technology.

Post-Surgery

What are the risks after adenoid and tonsil surgery?
Postoperative pain is rare in children undergoing adenoid and tonsil surgery and can be managed with simple pain relievers. The risk of bleeding is much lower in children compared to adults. However, very rarely, early bleeding can occur immediately after surgery or late bleeding around the 7th day.

The technologies and surgical techniques used during the surgery reduce the risk of early bleeding, while adherence to medication and dietary guidelines can significantly decrease the risk of late bleeding. Nevertheless, bleeding that occurs very rarely can be managed with careful and prompt interventions.

After tonsil and adenoid surgery, due to the presence of a large number of tissues in the body that can fulfill their functions, there is no adverse effect on the immune system in the long term.