Adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the adenoids, often performed alongside a tonsillectomy. The adenoids are a mass of lymphoid tissue located behind the nasal passages. Knowing what to expect before, during, and after the surgery can help ensure a smooth recovery for your child.
Pediatric Adenoidectomy
If your doctor has recommended an adenoidectomy for your child, it’s important to understand the procedure, its benefits, risks, and potential complications. The adenoids can become enlarged or chronically infected, leading to breathing problems, snoring, sleep apnea, sinus or ear infections. Removing the adenoids can help alleviate these issues.
Risks and Complications
While adenoidectomy is generally safe, it carries potential risks and complications, including:
- Failure to resolve ear or sinus infections, or relieve nasal drainage.
- Bleeding, which in rare cases, may require a blood transfusion.
- Permanent change in voice or nasal regurgitation (rare).
- Need for additional surgery (e.g., sinus, nasal, or tonsil surgery).
- Infection.
- Failure to improve nasal airway or resolve snoring, sleep apnea, or mouth breathing.
- Need for allergy evaluation and treatment.
Before Surgery
Adenoidectomy is typically an outpatient procedure performed at a hospital or surgical center. Your child’s anesthesiologist will monitor them throughout the surgery. Preoperative instructions include:
- Avoid aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen or naproxen) for 7-10 days before surgery.
- Only give acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief.
- Ensure your child does not eat or drink anything 6 hours before surgery.
- If your child is ill the day before surgery, contact your doctor. If they wake up sick on the day of surgery, proceed to the surgical facility as planned unless they have chickenpox.
Day of Surgery
Arrive on time at the surgical facility with all necessary paperwork. Your child should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and may bring a favorite toy or blanket. During surgery, an anesthesiologist will administer a general anesthetic. The procedure involves removing the adenoids through the mouth, usually taking less than 45 minutes.
After Surgery
Post-surgery, your child will be monitored in the recovery room until they are fully awake. They can go home the same day. Follow these guidelines for recovery:
- Offer a light, soft, and cool diet, avoiding hot liquids for several days.
- If vomiting occurs, consult your doctor for medication.
- Ensure your child completes their prescribed antibiotics.
- Administer prescribed pain medications as needed and avoid giving other medications without consulting your doctor.
Recovery
Schedule a follow-up appointment 10-14 days after the procedure. Post-surgery symptoms may include nasal stuffiness, temporary changes in voice, and minor nasal bleeding. Most children need 7-10 days off from school and should avoid strenuous activities for three weeks.
Notify Your Doctor If Your Child Experiences:
- A sudden increase in nasal bleeding not relieved by pressure, ice, and head elevation.
- Persistent fever over 101.5°F despite fluid intake, cool baths, and acetaminophen.
- Severe pain or headache not relieved by prescribed medication.
- Increased swelling or redness of the nose or eyes.
Understanding these details can help you prepare for your child's adenoidectomy and ensure a smoother recovery process. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask your doctor.
