Ear, Nose, and Throat Surgeries

Tonsil and Adenoid Surgery (Adenotonsillectomy)

In adults, the palatine tonsils often atrophy and are no longer actively functioning. If an adult experiences recurrent tonsillar abscesses or persistent inflammation, it can lead to fatigue, hair loss, joint problems, and heart and kidney issues. In such cases, removal becomes justified as the potential complications far outweigh the benefits. There are numerous other lymphatic tissues in the throat that can perform the filtering function.

For individuals suffering from frequent tonsillitis accompanied by high fever and severe throat pain multiple times a year, removal of the palatine tonsils is recommended. If a peritonsillar abscess develops, surgery is absolutely necessary.

Enlarged adenoids can block the nasopharynx, complicating nasal breathing and causing nasal speech, snoring, open-mouth sleeping, nasal discharge congestion, and sustaining sinus inflammation. If they block the openings of the Eustachian tubes, they can cause acute and chronic otitis media, leading to temporary or permanent hearing loss. The stagnant, dripping nasal mucus can lead to cough, laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, and exacerbate or trigger asthma symptoms.

Tonsil surgery is performed under general anesthesia with an overnight hospital stay. The surgical technique is tailored by the physician to the individual patient. While traditional surgical techniques are still in use, in a growing number of cases today, we employ other, modern methods such as the use of a radiofrequency knife for tonsil removal. The choice of technique is discussed with the patient by the treating physician.

During surgeries using coblation technology, also known as plasma knife procedures, our specialists work at approximately 50 degrees Celsius using a plasma layer created at the tip of the wand. This tool simultaneously cuts and cauterizes, with minimal damage due to the low temperature. Compared to traditional cutting, it is gentler, the wound heals easier and faster, bleeds less, and the surgical area is less painful.

You can read about our new, modern, and innovative BiZact™ tonsillectomy scissor procedure by clicking here.