Tonsil removal, also known as tonsillectomy, is a frequent surgical procedure where tonsils, two little glands at the back of the throat, are taken out. The tonsils do act as part of the immune system in fighting infections, but sometimes they can give the individual recurrent infections or recurrent airway obstruction and what we do is take them out. In this article, you’ll read about reasons a tonsillectomy might be needed, the tonsillectomy procedure itself, possible benefits of getting a tonsillectomy, and what to expect when you recover.
What Are the Tonsils?
Your tonsils are part of your lymphatic system, the system that helps protect you from infection. The tonsils are situated in the back of the throat and capture bacteria and viruses entering through the mouth or nose. But in others, the tonsils get infected and swell — known as tonsillitis. At times, doctors may recommend tonsillectomy, because of chronic or severe tonsillitis, sleep apnea caused by enlarged tonsils or other complications.
When Do You Need Tonsil Removal?
Tonsil removal is typically considered in these cases:
- Chronic or Recurrent Tonsillitis: Tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) has a devastating effect on a person’s quality of life because frequent episodes can occur. A tonsillectomy is recommended if a person has more than seven infections per year, five in two years in a row, or three in three years in a row.
- Sleep Apnea or Breathing Problems: Sleep apnea (pauses in breathing during sleep) or other breathing problems can happen because enlarged tonsils can block the airway. It can lead to poor sleep, daytime fatigue and in some extreme situations a predisposition to heart problems.
- Abscess or Peritonsillar Abscess: A peritonsillar abscess is a collection of pus near the tonsils; it causes severe pain and trouble swallowing. Sometimes the abscess does not respond to treatment or recurs, in which case a tonsillectomy is necessary.
- Other Health Complications: If someone has difficulty swallowing because their tonsils are too big, or they get tonsil related ear infections frequently, or even if they grow growths or tumors on their tonsils, they may need a tonsillectomy.
The Tonsillectomy Procedure
In most cases, tonsillectomy is an outpatient procedure (you can leave the hospital on the day of the surgery). Surgery is done under general anesthesia, which means the patient is asleep and won’t be aware of painful sensations during the operation.
In the surgery, the general surgeon in Islamabad cuts incisions to detach the tonsils from the adjacent tissue, which they remove through the mouth. It generally takes about 30 to 60 minutes of procedure. In rare cases a surgeon may use a scalpel, but often electrocautery (heat) or radiofrequency ablation (use of energy waves) to take out the tonsils and stanch any bleeding.
Benefits of Tonsil Removal
For some people, having a tonsillectomy can be life changing. Some of the key benefits include:
- Fewer Infections: When the tonsils are removed, many people have fewer throat infections and don’t need antibiotics or time off work or school.
- Improved Breathing and Sleep: Those with sleep apnea or breathing issues caused by enlarged tonsils often find that their ability to breathe improves dramatically, which means better sleep and less daytime fatigue.
- Relief from Chronic Pain: The tonsillectomy can remove the ailments of chronic throat pain and discomfort caused by chronic tonsillitis or peritonsillar abscesses.
Recovery from Tonsillectomy
A tonsillectomy can offer long term benefits, however recovery can be painful and take anywhere between one to two weeks. Here’s what to expect during recovery:
- Pain and Discomfort: It is common to have throat pain after a tonsillectomy, and pain may last 7–10 days. It may also cause pain to radiate to the ears. To help manage the pain the doctor can give pain medication. To keep up with the pain you need to take the medication as directed.
- Hydration and Nutrition: During recovery, it’s extremely important not to get dehydrated so drinking plenty of fluids is essential. Softer foods like applesauce, yogurt, or ice cream, and cold or room temperature liquids may also feel good.
- Rest and Activity: Initial recovery is important with rest. Be very careful; avoid strenuous activity for at least two weeks while the body heals.
- Bleeding: Bleeding from the throat is normal after surgery but heavy or prolonged bleeding needs to be reported to the doctor quickly.
- Bad Breath: Bad breath from the surgical site is common after surgery for a week or so while the site heals. This is part of normal recovery and will clear up as the throat recovers.
- Follow-Up Care: Most people will be asked to see their general surgeon in Rawalpindi for a follow up appointment to check that things will heal properly. Please attend this appointment and contact them if you’ve got any concerns or you’re experiencing any complications in the recovery.
Conclusion
Although tonsil removal is a relatively routine procedure, it can be a great deal of relief for those with chronic tonsillitis, sleep apnea, or other problems associated with enlarged tonsils. The recovery period can be uncomfortable, but the long term benefits usually far outweigh the short term pain including less infections, better sleep and all around better health. If tonsil issues are frequent for you or your child, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider to see if tonsillectomy can be your way to go.