The adenoid consists of spongy tissues located at the back of the nasal cavity and on the roof of the mouth. These spongy tissues located on the roof of the mouth have the task of catching harmful viruses and bacteria that are taken into the body from the nose area by respiration, and stimulating the immune system against these elements. Adenoid, just like tonsils, creates a defense system by activating the immune system against elements that may pose a danger to the body.
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What is Adenoid?
The nasal flesh contains antibodies that enable the body to fight infections and protect itself, as well as acting as a barrier against the elements that may pose a danger to the body during respiration, which is a vital process. However, as a person grows, they develop new ways and defense mechanisms against the factors which pose a danger to the body. In this case, we can say that the adenoid starts shrinking at the age of 5, loses its function and disappears completely during adolescence.
The nasal flesh, which shrinks and disappears over time due to the natural body balance, does not shrink with the effect of some factors, and even grows and can cause negative effects on the life of the person. The most important reason for the growth of adenoid is the spread of viruses that pose a threat to the body in this spongy structure that acts as a barrier.
What are the Symptoms of Adenoid Growth?
The enlargement of the adenoids and the significant negative effects on the life of the person manifest with certain symptoms. We can list these symptoms as follows;
How is the Diagnosis Made?
After a detailed ear, nose and throat examination, in some cases, it may be necessary to examine the adenoids more closely and in detail using the endoscopic method.
Adenoid X-ray data may be needed in cases where advanced enlargement is observed in the adenoid and before adenoid reduction surgeries. Using X-ray, it can be determined to what extent the size of the adenoid is obstructing the airway.
How Is a Surgery Performed in Adenoid Treatment?
Adenoid enlargement and the emergence of the above symptoms makes adenoid treatment a necessity. In the treatment of adenoids, the first choice is drug treatment. First of all, the microbe that causes the growth of the adenoid is determined and the necessary drug or antibiotic treatment is applied accordingly.
The frequent inflammation and enlargement of the adenoid means that the adenoid has lost its protective function. In these cases, adenoid reduction surgery is a necessity.
What is the Age Limit for Adenoid Reduction Surgery?
There is no definite lower age limit for adenoid surgery. Although it is preferably performed over the age of 2, it can also be performed under the age of 2 if there is an obstructive adenoid. There is no lower age limit for adenoid surgery, so in cases where adenoids prevent breathing, surgery can as well be performed at the age of 1.
Upon entering the adolescence period, the adenoid area enlarges and shrinkage occurs in the adenoid. In this respect, adenoid reduction surgeries in older children and adults is generally a rare occurrence.
How Long Does the Operation Take, Is Anesthesia Administered?
The operation is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 20 minutes. Sedative syrup is administered before the child is taken into the operating room. Afterwards, anesthesia is administered, followed by the surgical operation.
The hospital stay after adenoid surgery generally lasts 5-10 hours on average.
Are Stitches Used in Adenoid Surgery?
Adenoid surgery is performed through the mouth, not through the nose and no stitches are used.
Adenoid surgery is an easy and fast procedure, hence associated postoperative pain is minimal.
How Long is the Recovery Period? How long is the Hospital Stay?
After the surgery, hospital stay is about 5 hours. In operations performed in the morning, the patient is discharged in the afternoon. The patient can go back to their normal life the day after their operation.
In some cases, it may be necessary to put a tampon behind the nose after the surgery and in these cases, the patient is kept under observation in the hospital overnight.
How Should Diet Be After Adenoid Surgery?
Feeding can start 2 hours after the operation, with nutrients in soft consistency. Puree, warm soup, vegetable dishes, fruit puree, custard and ice cream are preferred.
On the first day after adenoid surgery, everything can be eaten, except acidic and spicy foods, provided that it is not too hot.
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