Definition

A tonsillectomy is the removal of the tonsils. Tonsils are nodes found in the back of the throat.

The Tonsils

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Reasons for Procedure

Tonsils are part of the immune system. They trap germs that come in through your mouth and nose to prevent infection in the throat or lungs. Sometimes this can cause problems such as:

• Chronic or recurrent bacterial throat infections that do not respond to other treatment
• Peritonsillar abscess—pocket of infection spreading outside the tonsil

Removing the tonsils may decrease the number of throat infections.

Some tonsils can also become enlarged. It may cause obstruct the flow of air. One example is sleep apnea.

Possible Complications

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:

• Bleeding
• Temporary breathing problems
• Burns (if a hot knife or laser is used)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Infection
• Dehydration
• Injury to teeth, voice box, or soft palate

Factors such as weight or chronic disease may increase your child’s risk of problems. Teens who engage in tobacco, alcohol, and/or drug use may also increase their risk of problems.

What to Expect

Call Your Child's Doctor

Call your child's doctor if any of these occur:

• Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the site where the tonsils were removed
• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Pain, nausea, or vomiting that cannot be controlled with the medications they were given
• Spitting or vomiting blood
• New or unexpected symptoms

Call for emergency medical services right away if your child is bleeding excessively or has difficulty breathing.

If you think your child has an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.