While the child is deep asleep and pain-free (using general anesthesia), a breathing tube is inserted into the child's mouth and throat. A small instrument is inserted into the mouth to prop it open. The adenoid tissue can be removed either with a curette or a microdebrider. Some may opt to cauterize the adenoids instead of removing the tissue. Bleeding is controlled with packing and cauterization.

The child will remain in the recovery room after surgery until he is awake and able to breathe easily, cough, and swallow. Most children are allowed to go home several hours later.

Adenoidectomy may be recommended when:

• Enlarged adenoids are blocking the airway, which may be suspected if the child:
  • Has enlarged adenoids
  • Snores excessively
  • Has trouble breathing through the nose (nasal obstruction)
  • Has episodes of not breathing during sleep (sleep apnea)

Adenoidectomy may be recommended if the child has chronic ear infections that:

• Interfere with child's education
• Persist despite antibiotic treatment
• Recur 5 or more times in a year
• Recur 3 or more times a year during a 2-year period

Adenoidectomy may be recommended if the child has chronic or repeated bouts of tonsillitis.

The adenoids normally shrink as the child reaches adolescence and adenoidectomy is rarely needed after reaching the teenage years.

Risks for any anesthesia are:

• Reactions to medications
• Breathing problems

Risks for any surgery are:

• Bleeding
• Infection

Most children have less trouble breathing through the nose, and fewer and milder sore throats and ear infections after adenoidectomy.

In rare cases, adenoid tissue can grow back which usually does not cause a problem.