Tonsillectomy
Alternate Names : Tonsils Removal
DefinitionTonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils.
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Overview & Description
The tonsil glands serve as agents against infections. However, in some people, particularly in children who have large tonsils, these glands perform less efficiently and can cause frequent throat and ear infections or may obstruct breathing. In these cases, surgery to remove the tonsils is of benefit.
While the patient is under general anesthesia, the ear-nose-throat (ENT) surgeon holds the mouth open to expose the tonsils. The tonsils are then cut away with an instrument or a cautery (burning instrument). Bleeding is controlled, and the cut heals naturally without stitches.
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