What is an adenoidectomy?

Adenoidectomy is the removal of the adenoids, which are small pads of tissue located at the back of the nose, above the throat. Functioning as part of the immune system, they respond to airborne pathogens. However, when they become chronically swollen or infected, they can cause various problems, making their removal necessary.

What is the procedure?

The adenoidectomy procedure is performed with the patient under general anesthesia. It is a straightforward surgery that does not involve any external incisions, as the adenoids are accessible through the mouth. The operation typically takes less than an hour, and the removal is done using a variety of tools such as a curette, microdebrider, or cautery device, depending on the patient's specific anatomy and the most effective technique for the individual.

Who is a candidate?

Candidates for adenoidectomy often suffer from chronic infections or persistent breathing problems due to enlarged adenoids. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, sleep apnea, or recurrent ear infections. An ENT specialist at Louisiana ENT can determine if an adenoidectomy is appropriate through a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical exam, imaging studies, and possibly a sleep study.

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Adenoidectomy for children

Children are the most common recipients of adenoidectomy. Enlarged adenoids can obstruct their airway, affecting sleep and causing them to breathe through their mouth. Children who benefit most from this surgery include those with frequent middle ear infections, which can affect hearing and speech development, or those with significant sleep disturbances due to obstructed breathing.

What to expect when undergoing an adenoidectomy

Patients and their families will receive detailed instructions on preparing for surgery and what to expect on the day of the procedure. Once the surgery is complete, patients rest in the recovery room, where they are closely monitored as they wake up from anesthesia. Discomfort is usually mild, but pain management is a crucial part of our postoperative care, and we provide clear guidelines on managing pain at home.

What is the recovery time?

Recovery from an adenoidectomy is usually quick. Most patients can return to school or work within a week. Pain is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or as directed by the physician. It's important to drink plenty of fluids and eat soft foods during the first few days post-surgery. Our team will provide a comprehensive recovery plan, including signs of potential complications to watch for and a schedule for follow-up appointments.

What are the benefits of an adenoidectomy?

The benefits of adenoidectomy can be substantial. For children and adults alike, this surgery often results in fewer throat infections, better breathing, improved sleep, and a more robust overall quality of life. By resolving nasal obstruction and improving airway function, patients experience significant relief from previous chronic conditions.

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Why Louisiana ENT Specialists for adenoid surgery?

At Louisiana ENT Specialists, you're choosing a team of experienced ENT specialists who understand how issues affecting this critical structure can impact overall health and daily living. Our commitment to patient care is reflected in our individualized treatment plans and state-of-the-art surgical techniques to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.

Our approach goes beyond the technical aspects of surgery; we provide a supportive environment throughout the healing process. Our compassionate team ensures that every patient, particularly our pediatric ones, feels comfortable and reassured every step of the way. We pride ourselves on being the most extensive network of ENT specialists in Louisiana, offering a unique combination of skill, experience, and patient-centered care.

Choosing Louisiana ENT Specialists for an adenoidectomy means entrusting your or your child's care to a team that puts your health first. Our expertise, comprehensive care, and the warm, supportive atmosphere set us apart. We're not just treating conditions but enhancing lives through exceptional medical and surgical care, one patient at a time.

With 15 convenient locations around the Louisiana area, we're never far away.

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