Dr. Priyanka J. Hardikar

Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove the tonsils, which are two oval-shaped pads of tissue located at the back of the throat. The surgery is commonly done to treat recurring episodes of tonsillitis (inflammation or infection of the tonsils) or other related conditions that significantly affect a person's health and quality of life.

Indications for Tonsillectomy

• Recurrent Tonsillitis: Frequent episodes of bacterial or viral infections causing inflammation, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing.
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Enlarged tonsils obstructing the airway during sleep, leading to disrupted breathing patterns and sleep disturbances.
• Peritonsillar Abscess: A collection of pus behind the tonsils that may require drainage and removal of the tonsils.
• Tonsillar Hypertrophy: Enlarged tonsils causing difficulty breathing, swallowing problems, or affecting normal growth and development in children.
• Chronic Bad Breath: Persistent halitosis (bad breath) due to recurrent tonsillitis or tonsillar stones (calcium deposits).

Benefits of Tonsillectomy

• Reduction in Infections: Decreases the frequency and severity of tonsillitis episodes.
• Improved Breathing: Resolves airway obstruction caused by enlarged tonsils, improving breathing patterns and reducing sleep apnea symptoms.
• Relief from Symptoms: Alleviates throat pain, difficulty swallowing, and other discomfort associated with chronic tonsillitis.
• Prevention of Complications: Minimizes the risk of complications such as peritonsillar abscesses or recurrent strep throat infections.