Tonsil removal in adults

Tonsil removal in adults

Tonsillectomy is a very commonly performed procedure in adults. What exactly does it involve? When is it worth deciding to remove the tonsils? Are there any contraindications to the procedure? Does tonsil removal in adults require special preparation? You will find answers to these questions in the article below. We encourage you to read it!

What are palatine tonsils?

Let us start by defining what palatine tonsils actually are. What does the term mean? Palatine tonsils are ellipsoidal clusters of lymphatic tissue (also called lymphoid tissue) located on both sides of the throat. They are about 2 cm long and about 1 cm wide. Palatine tonsils are part of the immune system, and their function is related to the production of antigens, substances used to produce immune antibodies. They constitute the first protective barrier of our respiratory system against pathogens (bacteria, viruses, and fungi). Due to their location, palatine tonsils are tasked with preventing the spread of germs and protecting us from the development of diseases.

Indications and contraindications for tonsil removal in adults

During infections, the tonsils enlarge, become red and congested. This is a completely normal reaction and there is no cause for concern.

However, there are situations when pathological changes occur, which may manifest as enlarged tonsils in adults, recurrent infections, and chronic inflammation. In such cases, they cease to perform their primary function and themselves become a source of numerous complications.

Certainly, indications for tonsillectomy (i.e., removal of the palatine tonsils) in adults include recurrent and difficult-to-treat tonsil infections that cause problems with breathing or speaking. Tonsillectomy may be a good choice when the tonsils are so enlarged that they cause snoring, sleep apnea, and breathing difficulties during sleep. A specialist may also recommend the procedure when the tonsils block the external opening of the Eustachian tube, resulting in recurrent middle ear infections and hearing loss. Other indications for tonsillectomy include chronic, recurrent inflammation of the paranasal sinuses and nasopharynx or suspicion of malignant tumor.

Contraindications to tonsil removal concern people suffering from velopharyngeal insufficiency, blood clotting disorders, or acute respiratory tract inflammations. Tonsillectomy is not performed in patients with leukemia, hemorrhagic diathesis, or respiratory or circulatory failure. Contraindications also include rhinitis and active tuberculosis.

Ultimately, whether the procedure will be performed depends on the doctor performing it. Therefore, a consultation is necessary first.

What does the tonsil removal procedure in adults involve?

Tonsillotomy involves removing 30-60% of the tonsil mass and is performed in children and adolescents. In adults, the aforementioned tonsillectomy is performed, which involves complete removal of the tonsils.

The procedure is performed through the oral cavity. The specialist does not make incisions on the facial or neck skin, so there is no need to worry about scars. Tonsillectomy involves separating the palatine tonsils from the surrounding tissues and then removing them along with their surrounding capsules. In case of bleeding, it is controlled by electrocoagulation, pressure, or ligation of blood vessels. Tonsillectomy is most often performed under general anesthesia. It may last from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Does tonsil removal in adults require special preparation?

Tonsil removal in adults requires some preparation. First and foremost, it is necessary to treat dental and other oral diseases. You must also follow other doctor’s recommendations, including discontinuing certain medications and performing basic laboratory tests (e.g., blood count and coagulation parameters). If you have chronic illnesses, the doctor may recommend additional tests. On the day of the procedure itself, you must not consume food or drinks.