Tonsil & Adenoid Removal Tonsils are lymph glands or lymph nodes in the back of the throat that serve as agents against infections. Some people, particularly children with enlarged tonsils, are more at risk for infection of the tonsils, ear infections, and/or obstruction of breathing. In such cases, surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may help eliminate these problems. Tonsillectomy is usually done by an ear, nose, and throat surgeon as an outpatient surgical procedure with the patient asleep (under general anesthesia). The procedure is done with a technique called Coblation. Coblation is an advanced technology that combines gentle radiofrequency energy with natural saline, to quickly and safely remove the tonsils. Coblation does not heat or burn the surrounding health tissue and leaves it intact. Coblation results in minimal pain and rapid recovery for the patients. Most patients are able to resume a normal diet and activity within a few days. The adenoids are located near the tonsils behind the back of the nose and above the throat. They are small pads of tissue and cannot be seen by looking in the mouth. Children between age 2 and 6 are more likely to have enlarged and inflamed adenoids. This swelling is often associated with tonsillitis. Enlarged adenoids can block the eustachian tubes (the tubes from the middle ears to the back of the nose), causing ear infections. They can also block the nasal airway resulting in mouth breathing and snoring at night. Adenoids can also become infected. The adenoids are often removed (adenoidectomy) due to blocked nasal passages and frequent ear infections. Adenoidectomy is performed by an ENT (ear, nose and throat) surgeon under general anesthesia. In the first 10 to 14 days after adenoidectomy, snoring, and/or nasal congestion may be temporarily increased due to swelling in the back of the nose. Scabs that form after surgery can cause temporary bad breath. Removal of adenoids is sometimes done with tonsillectomy and/or with myringotomy with insertion of ear tubes (see myringotomy). Along with fewer sore throats, ear infections, and decreased snoring and mouth breathing, tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy can also result in fresher breath and improved voice quality. Patients should consult their physician for a complete explanation of the procedure and its associated risks and complications.