Adenoidectomy

What is an adenoidectomy?

An adenoidectomy is surgery to remove the adenoids – small lumps of tissue at the back of the nose that help protect us from bacteria and viruses. Adenoids are larger in children and usually disappear by adulthood. Adenoids can become swollen and enlarged (a condition called adenoid hypertrophy). This often happens after an infection or as a reaction to a substance or allergen and can cause pain or difficulties with breathing.

Why have this procedure?

Your child may need to have an adenoidectomy if they are having recurrent or persistent problems with their adenoids. This may include breathing problems, disrupted sleep, constant runny nose or recurrent middle ear infections (otitis media or glue ear). Your ENT surgeon may recommend removing the adenoids based on your child’s symptoms, and whether their adenoids are enlarged.

What is involved in this procedure?

Adenoidectomy is one of the most common procedures performed on young children and is often done at the same time as surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy). It is a straightforward procedure that usually takes 30 minutes. Your child will receive a general anaesthetic so they are asleep during the operation and will not feel or remember anything after the procedure.

Adenoids are removed through the mouth using minimally invasive techniques. Heat is used to stop the bleeding so there is no need for sutures (stiches) and no need to remove anything later. Your child will wake up in recovery where you will be waiting for them.

What should I expect after surgery?

After surgery, your child may have a slight temperature so it’s important to take any pain medication and antibiotics your ENT surgeon prescribes. Most children start to feel better after 1-2 days and can return to normal activities within two weeks. Smelly breath after the operation is a normal part of the healing process and should pass within a few days. If your child becomes unwell, is not taking fluids or has an increased temperature that will not go down, please contact our practice as you may need further supportive treatment in hospital.

Where will my child have surgery?

Adenoidectomy is performed in hospital. If your child is having an adenoidectomy only, this will be booked as day surgery and your child will be able to go home on the same day. If your child is also having a tonsillectomy, this will usually be booked for an overnight stay in hospital.

If you have private health cover, you can choose to have the surgery at North Shore Private Hospital, Castlecrag Private Hospital or Northern Beaches Hospital. If you prefer to be seen as a public patient, surgery is offered at Northern Beaches Hospital or Westmead Children’s Hospital.