Type of Surgery
Information

Last updated: 11/24/2009
A tonsillectomy is usually performed under general anesthesia, although adults may occasionally receive a local anesthetic. The surgeon depresses the tongue in order to see the throat, and removes the tonsils with an instrument resembling a scoop.
Alternate methods for removing tonsils are being investigated, including lasers and other electronic devices.
Advertisement
Mostly everyone has heard of tonsillectomy, that is, a surgery to remove the tonsils; but the location of the tonsils is often no more clear than "somewhere in the throat." This narrated animation shows where the tonsils are located and gives an approximation of what they look like when they are inflamed and headed for tonsillectomy.
Other Information
A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure in which the tonsils are removed. Sometimes the adenoids are removed at the same time.
Other Information
In 2000, children's risk of surgery increased from 17.9% in 1981 to 20.2% in 1998/99, while ENT surgery rates increased by 21% over the period.
From: NCBI
Find a Qualified Specialist
Looking for a specialist?
Please enter your zip code.


