Tonsillectomy

Tonsillectomy is an operative procedure to remove palatine tonsils from the rear part of the throat.

The tonsils (palatine tonsils) are two soft tissue masses situated at the back of the throat. One on each side, they are a part of the lymphatic system.

Sometimes the adenoids are also taken out. In that case, the procedure is known as an adenotonsillectomy.

Tonsillectomy surgery is a standard surgical procedure. It is mostly done in childhood but can be done in adults too.

tonsillectomy

Tonsillectomy indications

The tonsillectomy procedure is done for the following reasons-

  • Sleep apnea
  • Chronic tonsillitis
  • Peritonsillar abscess
  • Periodic fever
  • Aphthous stomatitis
  • Pharyngitis and adenitis (PFAPA)
  • Guttate psoriasis
  • Nasal airway obstruction
  • Tonsil cancer
  • Diphtheria carrier state
  • Suspected malignancy
  • Recurrent haemorrhage

For kids, tonsillectomy is usually done along with removing the adenoid. But it is unclear whether the adenoid removal affects recurrent sore throat treatment.


Tonsillectomy Advantages

The advantages of tonsillectomy are -

  • Fewer infections
  • Improved quality of life
  • No fatigue
  • Less use of medications
  • Improved sleep
  • No absentees at school or work

Risks with tonsillectomy

Tonsillectomy surgery is usually a general and safe procedure. Rarely, it can involve any risk factors, such as -

  • Infection
  • Swelling
  • Bleeding
  • Reaction to anaesthesia

How to prepare for tonsillectomy

The doctor will record your medical history and check if you have any bleeding problems, allergies, etc.

The doctor will give you a few instructions to follow before the surgical procedure. They can be -

  • Stop taking anti-inflammatory medicines two weeks before the operation.
  • You need to fast after midnight before your operation

Tonsillectomy Procedure

The operation is done under general anaesthesia and the surgery takes 20 to 30 minutes.

Both the tonsils are usually removed, but some patients may benefit from a partial tonsillectomy.

There are many ways to do a tonsillectomy, such as -

  • Electrocautery - In this method, heat removes the tonsils and restricts any bleeding.
  • Cold knife (steel) dissection - The tonsils are surgically removed with a scalpel in this method. Sutures or electrocautery (extreme heat) are used to stop the bleeding.
  • Harmonic scalpel - In this procedure, ultrasonic vibrations are used to cut and stop bleeding from the tonsils together.
  • Other techniques like a carbon dioxide laser, radiofrequency ablation, and a microdebrider are also used for tonsillectomy.

After the Tonsillectomy procedure

There can be nausea and some pain in the jaw, ears, neck, or sore throat during the postoperative period. Take sufficient rest in the first few days after the surgery.

Your doctor will prescribe you painkillers to get relief from the pain. Take the doctor's advice if you are experiencing severe pain, breathing problems, bleeding, or fever after the procedure. Snoring in the first few days is normal.


Tonsillectomy Care at Medicover Hospital

Medicover Hospitals is supported by an experienced team of doctors and surgeons who perform tonsillectomy surgery with great precision using the latest tools and technologies. We are also equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities that ensure flawless procedures in a highly safe and hygienic environment, ready to handle any emergency situation.


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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is tonsillectomy an extensive surgery?

Tonsillectomy is a common but crucial surgery with rare complications.

2. For how long will I need to stay in the hospital after a tonsillectomy?

It depends upon your health condition. Usually, you can leave the hospital on the same day. But you need to stay for a few hours in the hospital after the operation so that you can be monitored for bleeding.

3. Can I talk after the tonsillectomy?

Initially, your voice may sound different, and it will get back to normal in 2 to 6 weeks.

4. What is the cost of a tonsillectomy in India?

The cost of tonsillectomy ranges between Rs. 14,300 to Rs. 68,200 in India.

5. Is it possible to eat after a tonsillectomy?

Your doctor will advise you on what to eat immediately after the surgery. You may start with liquids and then switch to a soft diet.

6. What are the tonsillectomy contraindications?

  • Anaemia
  • Acute infections
  • Kids below three years
  • Bleeding issues e.g. haemophilia, leukaemia
  • Endemic of Polio