What Is an Adenotonsillectomy?
An adenotonsillectomy is a surgical procedure in which the tonsils and the adenoids are removed. This procedure is most commonly carried out in young children, although there are sometimes cases in which it is indicated for an adult. Ear, nose, and throat surgeons are common candidates to perform the procedure, although it can also be performed by an oral surgeon or a pediatric surgeon who specializes in working with children. Recovery times from an adenotonsillectomy are usually fairly short, and sometimes patients can go home on the same day as the surgery. Historically, removal of the adenoids and/or tonsils was usually done to address chronic inflammation and infection. Patients who developed recurrent infections might be advised to simply have this lymphatic tissue removed. However, today, these structures are more commonly taken out to address airway obstructions. Researchers have recognized that airway obstructions in early childhood can cause problems with childhood development
