The tonsils are paired defensive organs located in the mouth that function locally. Their role is to produce local defense cells that target microbes entering through the mouth. While performing these functions, they grow larger than normal, and if they become repeatedly infected, they begin to harm the body instead of defending it. In particular, if these infections become severe, they can infect various areas such as the kidneys, heart and joints, causing more serious and irreversible damage. In chronic infections that have reached this stage, removing the tonsils is the most appropriate treatment option.
What is the age limit for tonsil surgery?
Generally, we do not wish to perform this surgery before the age of 4, except in certain special cases. If there are large tonsils that cause breathing to stop during sleep and completely block the entrance of the throat, or tonsils that cause infection at least 5-6 times a year, we perform this surgery even before the age of 4.
How long does the operation take, is anesthesia given?
The operation is performed under general anesthesia and lasts approximately 20 minutes. Before the child is taken down to the operating room, a sedative syrup is given, and the child is taken to the operating room in this way. Afterwards, anesthesia is administered and the operation is carried out.
Are stitches used?
The surgery is performed through the mouth, and no stitches are used.
What method is used for the surgery?
The most preferred method for tonsil surgery in recent years is surgery performed with thermal welding.
What is the "Thermal welding" method?
It is a method frequently used in recent years, performed with an instrument with special tips that allows the tonsils to be removed without bleeding during the operation and without burning. The very minimal pain, the absence of bleeding and the fact that no stitches are used are the most important advantages of this method.
What is the recovery time? How long does one stay in the hospital?
After the operation, the stay in the hospital is approximately 5 hours. For operations performed in the morning, the patient is discharged in the afternoon. Normal daily life is resumed 1 day after the operation.
How should nutrition be after surgery?
Feeding begins 2 hours after the operation. Foods with a soft consistency are given. Purées, warm soups, vegetable dishes, fruit purée, milk pudding and ice cream are the preferred foods. For 1 week, attention should be paid to ensuring that foods have a softer consistency.
Does bleeding occur after surgery?
Bleeding after surgery is so unlikely, especially in operations performed with thermal welding, that it is practically nonexistent.
