1. What is an adenoid?

An adenoid is a mass of lymphoid tissue located above the roof of the mouth and behind the nose.

2. Why remove the adenoids?

An adenoidectomy is done for two major reasons:

a. To relieve nasal obstruction and facilitate breathing.
b. To relieve eustachian tube blockage and facilitate the drainage of ear secretions and improve ventilation of the ears – thus improve hearing and decrease the frequency of ear infections.

3. What risks are in the operation?

a. A small unexpected anesthetic risk; but, anesthesia is administered by trained professionals.
b. A small risk of postoperative bleeding; but, we are trained to handle this.
c. A change of voice into a more nasal and open voice. This will last from a few days to a few weeks.

4. What to expect after the surgery:

a. A slight sore throat; but, the child can have a normal meal the next day.
b. Some bloody nasal drainage, but nothing to be concerned about.

5. Call your physician if:

a. There is active bleeding.
b. The temperature goes above 100°F orally or 101°F rectally.