Adenoidectomy, Tonsillectomy, and Uvulectomy

Surgical Solutions for Snoring, Sleep Apnea, and Recurrent Infections

Did you know that enlarged adenoids and tonsils…

Are a major cause of snoring in children?
Can contribute to sleep apnea in both adults and children?
Are common in children?
Can contribute to ear infections and even hearing problems?
Can be removed in a short procedure that doesn’t require an overnight stay?

Otolaryngologist Dr. Marc Kayem regularly performs adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy for both children and adults, offering relief from snoring, sleep apnea, and recurrent pain.

When is an adenoidectomy or tonsillectomy necessary?

Though adenoids are glands that protect the body from infection, they can become infected themselves, leading to conditions like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), throat infection, and recurrent pain. When the issue becomes recurrent or chronic, it can cause snoring, sleep apnea, sore throat, ear issues, and difficulty breathing through the nose. Enlarged adenoids mainly affect children. Dr. Kayem typically performs the 15-minute procedure in a hospital, and patients go home the same day.

Swollen and enlarged tonsils can impair breathing and cause pain in children and adults. Tonsil removal surgery is typically recommended for severe, recurrent issues, chronic tonsillitis, and obstructive sleep apnea. Like an adenoidectomy, a tonsillectomy is a brief procedure that doesn’t require an overnight stay. The two procedures are often performed together in children under 13 who have enlarged adenoids and tonsils.

Removing tonsils and adenoids can also help prevent throat infections, a common issue with obstructive sleep apnea. The surgery involves local anesthetics to minimize discomfort.

Dr. Kayem has performed thousands of successful adenoidectomies and tonsillectomies. In fact, none of his patients have ever experienced postoperative bleeding, which according to textbooks and journals, typically occurs in 3-4% of surgeries.

What about laser tonsillectomy?

Though it sounds cutting-edge, a laser tonsillectomy is no better than a traditional tonsillectomy. One study reported many disadvantages, including “increased cost, increased total operating time as a result of increased setup time and laser malfunctions, delayed healing, and no statistically significant improvement in pain level.” For these reasons, Dr. Kayem does not perform laser tonsillectomies.

Additionally, removing tonsils can have other disadvantages, regardless of the method used. Tonsils play a role in the body’s immune system, acting as a first line of defense against pathogens. Their removal may potentially increase the risk of throat and respiratory infections. Furthermore, patients can experience significant pain during the recovery period, which can last for several weeks.

There are also risks of complications such as bleeding, swelling, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Therefore, it is crucial to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for each case.

Can a uvulectomy cure my snoring?

A uvulectomy, the surgical removal of the uvula, can sometimes help alleviate snoring, mainly if uvula-related obstructions cause snoring. The uvula, a small tissue hanging at the back of the throat, can vibrate excessively during sleep, contributing to snoring. Removing it may reduce these vibrations and improve airflow. However, a uvulectomy is not a universal solution.

Various factors, including nasal congestion, obesity, or sleep apnea, can cause snoring. Additionally, there are potential risks and side effects, such as difficulty swallowing or voice changes. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of your snoring and evaluate if a uvulectomy is appropriate for your specific condition. Other treatments might be more effective depending on the diagnosis.

Other Considerations

The procedures of adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy, and uvulectomy can have both short-term and long-term side effects. Short-term side effects may include pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing, which are usually managed with pain medicine. Long-term considerations involve understanding the role of these tissues in the immune system and their function in preventing food and respiratory infections.

The roof of your mouth, including the soft palate and connective tissue, can also be affected by these surgeries. For example, a swollen uvula or a teardrop-shaped uvula can indicate complications or recovery processes that need attention. It’s essential to monitor these conditions post-surgery to ensure proper healing and to avoid further complications.

If you or your child are experiencing symptoms related to obstructive sleep apnea, chronic throat infections, or other related issues, it may be time to consider these surgical options. Dr. Marc Kayem is highly experienced in performing these procedures and can provide you with the relief you need.