Surgery
Adenoidectomy
An adenoidectomy removes the adenoids — soft tissue high up behind the nose — usually in children with breathing, ear or sleep problems.
Quick answer
Adenoidectomy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
An adenoidectomy removes the adenoids, a patch of tissue at the back of the nose that is part of the immune system and tends to shrink with age. It is often done at the same time as removing tonsils or fitting grommets.
- Why it is done: It is used when enlarged adenoids block the nose or the tubes to the ears, causing persistent blocked nose, snoring, sleep problems, or repeated ear infections and glue ear.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic, the adenoids are removed through the mouth with no skin cuts, usually in a short operation of around 30 minutes.
What it is
An adenoidectomy removes the adenoids, a patch of tissue at the back of the nose that is part of the immune system and tends to shrink with age. It is often done at the same time as removing tonsils or fitting grommets.
Why it is done
It is used when enlarged adenoids block the nose or the tubes to the ears, causing persistent blocked nose, snoring, sleep problems, or repeated ear infections and glue ear.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic, the adenoids are removed through the mouth with no skin cuts, usually in a short operation of around 30 minutes. Most children go home the same day.
Recovery
There may be a sore throat, blocked nose or earache for a few days to a week. Most children are back to normal within one to two weeks, with regular fluids and pain relief helping recovery.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
It is generally very safe. Small risks include bleeding, temporary changes to the voice or the sound of speech, and the usual anaesthetic risks. Adenoids can occasionally regrow.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Adenoidectomy: frequently asked questions
Will removing the adenoids weaken my child’s immune system?
No. The adenoids are only a small part of the immune system, which has many other defences, so removing them does not leave a child unprotected.
Is it often done with other operations?
Yes. Adenoidectomy is frequently combined with removing the tonsils or fitting grommets, as the same problems (blocked nose, ear trouble, sleep issues) often occur together.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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