Tonsillectomy

Tonsils are located on both sides of the pharynx, at the transition from nasal cavity to the pharynx, behind the palate. The so-called third tonsil is located deep in the nasal cavity and is invisible upon regular pharyngeal examination. Its condition may be evaluated by an otolaryngologist upon special examination. Tonsils are a part of children's immune system; their goal is to fight microbes by capturing them and generating appropriate antibodies. However, as the children grow up, tonsils produce less and less antibodies, and their role in the immune system becomes less important. Despite their protective role against pathogens, tonsils may also become inflamed, resulting in tonsillitis.

In case of frequently recurring infections, tonsils may become hypertrophic, restricting normal breathing. In such case, children may breath only by mouth, have stuffed nose and hearing problems, and snoring with life-threatening apnoea. An otolaryngologist may suggest surgical removal of tonsils. Tonsils may also be surgically ablated in cases when reduction in their size is sufficient, most commonly in the case of problems with swallowing. Removal of tonsils should also be considered in case or recurrent tonsillitis and the associated risk of serious complications.

Surgical tonsillectomy is performed under full anaesthesia. The procedure lasts half an hour. Rehabilitation after the procedure lasts 3 hours, strict diet is also required. Cryosurgery, laser techniques, or both of these methods may be also used instead of the "classic" tonsil ablation.

Tonsillectomy procedures in the LUX MED Group Hospital are performed by physicians with many years of experience: Our paediatric surgeon is Maciej Wrona, MD.

For more information call 22 431 20 59 or visit szpital@luxmed.pl .