Adenoid Surgery

What Is An Adenoidectomy?

Adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove adenoids. The adenoids are a mass of lymphoid tissue located behind the nasal passages. Infected adenoids may become enlarged, and can obstruct breathing and cause other problems.

What Are The Symptoms Of Problem Adenoids?

  • Inability to breathe through the nose (mouth breathing); can result in excessive dental cavities
  • Thick, colored discharge from the nose
  • Snoring
  • Sleep apnea
  • Frequent ear infections
  • Speech impediment or delayed speech development
  • Unusual facial qualities, for example, an extremely elongated face with a high palatal arch and widened nose
  • Hearing loss due to middle ear fluid

What Can Surgery Accomplish?

  • Restore nasal breathing; stop mouth breathing
  • Stop snoring
  • Lower incidence of ear infections
  • Allow normal facial and dental growth
  • Improve hearing and speech
  • Lower risk of dental cavities

What Does Surgery Entail?

  • General anesthesia is required
  • Adenoids are removed through the mouth
  • Packing is rarely necessary