Tonsils & tonsillectomy

What are tonsils?

Tonsils are lymphoid tissue and are part of the immune system. Every one has two tonsils, one on either side at the back of the mouth. Tonsils vary in size from person to person. A main function of tonsils is to trap bacteria and viruses (germs) which ones throat is exposed to. Removing the tonsils however does not prevent your body from fighting these germs, as the tonsils only form a small part of ones immune system.

Why are tonsils removed?

The main indications for removing tonsils (tonsillectomy) are:

1.Recurrent infections (tonsillitis)

Some people are prone to repeated attacks of tonsillitis. The management option in these cases is to continue taking pain killers and antibiotics for each episode, or to have the tonsils removed surgically. The operation is usually recommended if the repeated infections are having a significant impact on the individual’s quality of life. In children this usually equates to them missing a lot of school.

2.Breathing Difficulty secondary to very large tonsils

Very large tonsils may be responsible for loud snoring, or in severe cases can cause obstruction to the breathing (apnoea). Repeated episodes of sleep apnoea, of significant duration, is termed obstructive sleep apnoea. Obstructive Sleep apnea if left untreated has an effect on daily functioning, concentration and in the long-term may cause heart related problems. When secondary to enlarged tonsils, obstructive sleep apnoea can be resolved by removing the tonsils surgically.

3.Other factors

Sometimes tonsils may need to be removed for diagnostic reasons if they have an abnormal appearance or if they are giving rise to unusual symptoms.

What does the operation involve?

The tonsils are removed through the mouth under general anaesthesia. This is an extremely commonly performed operation.

What to expect following the operation

In Hospital

Immediately after the operation you will experience the after effects of the anaesthetic, and may also have a sore throat. The latter is usually well controlled with simple pain killers. You will be discharged from the hospital the day after surgery.

AT Home

It is important that you continue to try and eat and drink as normal, and that you take your pain killers as necessary. It is not uncommon to have sore ears following tonsillectomy. This is referred pain from the tonsils and the ears themselves are quite healthy. The pain is well controlled with simple pain killers. If you look at your throat in the mirror the tonsil area will look white. This is part of the normal healing process, and is not a sign of infection.

You (or your child) should avoid returning to work or going back to school for 10 days after the operation. This is simply to reduce the chance of picking up an infection from others.

What are the complications of tonsillectomy?

This operation is performed very commonly, and complications are relatively uncommon. The main risk of surgery is bleeding. If you (or your child) experience any bleeding after surgery you must seek immediate medical advice.