I'm often asked by my adult patients if need their "adenoids out".  They are usually parents or family member of a young child who had their adenoids removed that resulted in improved breathing so it's a natural question.  Unlike children and some young adults, enlarged adenoids are actually quite uncommon in adults.  Most are found in chronic smokers and those who suffer from allergies. 

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The adenoids can be assessed by nasal endoscopy or by imaging.  

If needed, adenoidectomy surgery to remove enlarged adenoids does not take long to do and recovery is often painless with rapid return to normal activities. 

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Requisites

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Adenoidectomy may be an option for you if your adenoids are found to be abnormally enlarged.  Following requisites are important prior to undergoing the procedure.

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• You are in reasonably good health with no critical unstable medical condition.

• You have had an evaluation with a qualified surgeon to determine appropriateness of the procedure. 

• You have discussed the procedure with your surgeon and understand potential risks & benefits of the procedure.

• Be able to stop blood thinning medications prior to the procedure.

 

 

Risks of Adenoidectomy Surgery

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Although every surgery and treatment has risks, adenoidectomy risks are very low.  Risks include the following.

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• Bleeding and infection.  Universal risk with all surgeries.  Some blood tinged nasal drainage may occur after surgery.  Severe bleeding and infection are rare. 

• Pain.  Typically the pain is very mild.  Usually tylenol or ibuprofenis sufficient if needed.

• Injury to the teeth or the mouth.  Adenoids are removed through the mouth.  Injury to the mouth or teeth may occur but is uncommon.  Existing dental disease can increase risk.

• Numbness of the tongue.  Tongue depressor is used to keep the tongue depressed to visualize the adenoids.  Temporary numbness may occur.  Permanent numbness is rare. 

• Velopharyngeal incompetence.  The ability of your soft palate to close off the nasal cavity from your mouth when drinking or speaking may be compromised after removal of large adenoids.  This can lead to fluid or sounds leaking out of your nose when drinking or talking.   This is usually temporary.  Your muscles in  your palate did not have to work much to close the mouth from the nose when large adenoids were present, they'll need to after removal. 

• Need for further treatment.  Remaining congestion problems due to allergies or other problems will need continued treatment.  Other unexpected outcome may require additional treatment. 

• General Anesthesia if applicable.  Although risk is not zero, modern anesthesia is overwhelmingly safe.  Nausea and other anesthesia related problems may occur and may need further treatment. 

 

What to expect

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• Surgery is performed under general anesthesia in the operating room. 

• Most patients are discharged home the same day to convalesce at home.

• Most patients return to work or school within 2 days. 

• You can eat your normal diet.

• Light physical activity (walking) is encouraged during the recovery period. 

• You should avoid blowing your nose, heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and contact sports.

• Keeping the head of the bed elevated during sleep can help manage secretions..

• Using nasal saline spray can help clear debris. 

• Followup appointment will be 2-3 weeks after surgery. 

• On call physician is available 24-7 for any post surgery emergencies.  On call MD can be contacted 24-7 by calling our office.