Operations Performed:
Adenoidectomy
Adenoids are lymphoid ( immune) tissue located in the throat and at the back of the nose.
Adenoids
Adenoid tissue functions to assist in the development of the immune system in the first 2 years of life. As a child ages, their role becomes less important and non-essential for immunity. They usually disappear by 15-20 years of age but can persist in some adults and cause nasal obstruction and snoring.
Indications for adenoidectomy
- Nasal obstruction and snoring
- Persistent ear infections requiring multiple sets of grommets
What to expect with the procedure
The surgery is performed as a day case under general anaesthesia in a hospital. The procedure takes 15 minutes. Because of its location at the back of the nose, an adenoidectomy is usually performed through the mouth with retraction of the palate. The adenoid tissue is directly visualised and either cauterized or removed with a curette depending on its size.
After a short period in recovery, you will be transferred to the day stay ward and observed for 4-6 hours. If there is no evidence of bleeding, you will be discharged home.
The recovery from an adenoidectomy is quicker than that from an adenotonsillectomy. The risk of bleeding is much lower, but to minimize the risk we recommend no strenuous activity or straining for 1 week. Typically you will feel well enough to go back to work after 2-3 days. Usually only Panadol is required for pain relief. Some individuals may experience a smelly nasal discharge for up to 2 weeks due to the cautery. If you cough up more than a tablespoon of blood, proceed straight to the closest public emergency department for review. (Post-operative instructions)
I will review you 6 weeks after the procedure for one final check. If you are having any issues I am always available to review you earlier.