The tonsils are small, round pieces of tissue located at the back of the mouth, on either side of the throat. Adenoids are similar to tonsils, but are located at the back of the nasal cavity.
Tonsils and adenoids are usually removed when they become enlarged and inflamed and cause frequent infections. The procedure to remove the tonsils is known as tonsillectomy, and the removal of the adenoids is called an adenoidectomy. Because they are usually removed at the same time, the procedure is called a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, or T&A.
Tonsillotomy
Tonsillotomy is the partial removal of the tonsils. Studies have shown that children recover more quickly with less pain after a tonsillotomy compared to a full tonsillectomy. Both procedures relieve upper airway obstruction, but some children’s tonsils grow back after tonsillotomy and their symptoms may return.
T&A
A T&A may be recommended if infections of the tonsils and adenoids caused by tonsillitis and inflammation known as adenoiditis recur and or do not respond to conservative treatments.
Your doctor may decide that a T&A is the best option if the tonsils and adenoids are causing a functional problem such as:
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Recurrent infections
- Tonsil stones
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Tumor in the throat or nasal passage
- Bleeding from tonsils that cannot be stopped
- Significant obstruction of the nasal passage and uncomfortable breathing
What happens during a T&A?
Most T&A surgeries are done on an outpatient basis. The surgeon will remove your child’s tonsils and adenoids from the mouth. No incisions will be made in the skin.
