ADENOIDECTOMY
WHY IS THE SURGICAL PROCEDURE OF ADENOID REMOVAL (ADENOIDECTOMY) PERFORMED?
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Recurrent infections
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Chronic infection
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Purulent nasal discharge
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Adenoid enlargement with obstructive symptoms
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Recurrent middle ear infection
HOW IS ADENOIDECTOMY PERFORMED?
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In the operating room under general anesthesia
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Usually done as an outpatient procedure, unless complex medical problems exist
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Pre-op labs may be required
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Chest x-ray and EKG are required if patient is over the age of 50 and heart or lung problems exist
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
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Pain lasting 10-14 days in adults or only a few days in children
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Difficulty swallowing
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Minor bleeding
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Grayish discoloration of the throat
WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER THE SURGERY?
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Take antibiotics and pain medications given by the doctor
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Slowly advance diet as tolerated
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Drink cool liquids (water, milk, low acid juices, ice cream, Jell-O) during the first day
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Call the doctor if unable to drink liquids
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Go to the emergency room immediately if clots of blood occur
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Return for follow-up in 10 days