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Adenoid surgery, also known as adenoidectomy, is simple, lasts an average of 30 minutes and must be done under general anesthesia. However, despite being a quick and simple procedure, the total recovery lasts an average of 2 weeks, it is important that the person rests during this period, avoid places with a large concentration of people and make use of the medicines indicated by the doctor.
Adenoid is a set of lymphatic tissues that are located in the region between the throat and the nose and is responsible for recognizing viruses and bacteria and producing antibodies, thus protecting the organism. However, adenoids can grow a lot, becoming swollen and inflamed and causing symptoms such as frequent rhinitis and sinusitis, snoring and difficulty breathing that do not improve with the use of medications, requiring surgery. See what the adenoid symptoms are.
When is indicated
Adenoid surgery is indicated when the adenoid does not decrease in size even after using medications indicated by the doctor or when it leads to the appearance of infection and recurrent inflammation of the ear, nose and throat, hearing or olfactory loss and difficulty breathing.
In addition, surgery can also be indicated when there is difficulty in swallowing and sleep apnea, in which the person temporarily stops breathing during sleep, resulting in snoring. Learn how to identify sleep apnea.
How adenoid surgery is done
Adenoid surgery is performed with the person fasting for at least 8 hours, since general anesthesia is required. The procedure lasts an average of 30 minutes and consists of removing the adenoids through the mouth, with no need to make cuts on the skin. In some cases, in addition to adenoid surgery, tonsill and ear surgery may be recommended, as they also tend to become infected.
Adenoid surgery can be done from the age of 6, but in the most severe cases, such as sleep apnea, where breathing stops during sleep, the doctor may suggest surgery before that age.
The person can return home after a few hours, usually until the effect of the anesthesia wears off, or stay overnight for the doctor to monitor the patient's progress.
Adenoid surgery does not interfere with the immune system, as there are other defense mechanisms in the body. In addition, it is rare for adenoids to grow again, however in the case of babies, the adenoids are still growing and, therefore, an increase in their size over time may be noticed.
Risks of adenoid surgery
Adenoid surgery is a safe procedure, however, like any other type of surgery, it has some risks, such as bleeding, infections, complications from anesthesia, vomiting, fever and swelling of the face, which must be immediately reported to the doctor.
Recovery from adenoid surgery
Although adenoid surgery is a simple and quick procedure, recovery from surgery takes about 2 weeks and during that time it is important:
- Maintain rest and avoid sudden movements with the head;
- Eat pasty, cold and liquid foods for 3 days or as directed by the doctor;
- Avoid crowded places, such as shopping malls;
- Avoid contact with patients with respiratory infections;
- Take antibiotics as directed by your doctor.
During recovery the person may experience some pain, especially in the first 3 days and, for this, the doctor may prescribe painkillers, such as Paracetamol. In addition, one should go to the hospital if there is a fever above 38ºC or bleeding from the mouth or nose.
Watch the following video and learn what to eat during the recovery period from adenoid and tonsil surgery: