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TurkishAlthough tonsils have important functions such as preventing infections and supporting the immune system, they can also cause various problems from time to time. The most common problem is inflammation of the tonsils called tonsillitis. Since there are other structures in our body that can perform the tasks undertaken by the tonsils, it may be recommended to remove the tonsils when deemed necessary.
What is Tonsillectomy?
Two small glands called tonsils, located just behind the throat, contain white blood cells and fight infections. However, from time to time the tonsils become infected and develop tonsillitis, an infection of the tonsils that causes sore throat. If these infections recur too often, doctors may recommend removing both tonsils, a procedure called tonsillectomy.
Tonsillectomy can be performed not only for tonsillitis, but also for problems such as sleep apnea and snoring.
Removing the tonsils after tonsillectomy, which is one of the most common surgeries especially in childhood, does not have a negative effect on the body's immune system. Because there are other structures in the body that perform the same function as the tonsils and produce antibodies. In some cases, it is even more risky to keep the tonsils than tonsillectomy. If there are no problems such as stopping breathing during sleep, tonsillectomy is recommended to be performed after the age of 3.
When is Tonsillectomy Necessary?
Tonsillectomy, which is a procedure usually performed for children, may become necessary in following symptoms:
- Frequent recurrence of tonsillitis and high fever,
- Growth and developmental delay in children,
- Fluid accumulation in the ear and cysts on the tonsils,
- Suspicion of tumors originating from the tonsils or bleeding tonsils,
- Problems with breathing or eating habits,
- Swelling of the lymph nodes,
- Infections that cause bad breath,
- Rheumatism of the heart or acute rheumatic fever,
- Inflammation of the heart valve or kidney.
In addition to all these problems, frequent and loud snoring are also signs that tonsillectomy should be performed.
How is Tonsillectomy Performed?
This operation is done under general anesthesia, the patient's mouth is opened using medical instruments and the tonsils separated from the surrounding muscles and tissues are cut and removed. The cutting process can be performed with any of the cold knife method, bipolar and monopolar electrocautery, harmonic scalpel, radiofrequency, microdebrider and laser methods. Here are some things to know about the process after the operation:
- Patients are usually discharged the day after the operation,
- Cold and soft foods should be eaten and plenty of water should be consumed,
- There may be a sore throat or mild fever after the operation,
- Patients can return to normal life after about 10 days, so rest for 10 days is recommended, especially for children going to school.
Tonsillectomy has a high success rate. Therefore, it may be preferred to prevent the tonsils from causing more serious problems.
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