Type of Surgery
Information
Last updated: 11/24/2009
Tonsillectomy procedures are not performed as frequently today as they once were. One reason for a more conservative approach is the risk involved when a person is put under general anesthesia.
In some cases, a tonsillectomy may need to be modified or postponed:
- Bleeding disorders must be adequately controlled prior to surgery.
- Acute tonsillitis should be successfully treated prior to surgery. Treatment may postpone the surgery three to four weeks.
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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.
Tonsils are removed through the mouth (A). The surgeon uses a scissors to cut away the tonsils, and a forceps to pull them away (B). (Illustration by GGS Inc.)
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 2006, more than 50% of all physician office visits were for ears, nose throat, and related structures of the head and neck problems.
From: ENT Associate
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