Children's Adenotonsillectomy - Operative Overview

Adenotonsillectomy is typically performed as a day case under general anaesthetic. I use a modern technique called coblation, which reduces thermal injury to surrounding tissues. This approach offers improved precision, and may support a faster recovery compared with traditional methods. Surgery can improve your child's airway and sleep quality - with many parents noticing a reduction, or resolution, of snoring and apnoea. Children often show improved behaviour; energy levels; and growth. And for those with recurrent tonsillitis - the frequency of infections is usually significantly reduced. Recovery typically takes seven-to-fourteen days - and pain often peaks between days five and seven, as the healing tissue goes through a sloughing phase. This is normal, and keeping your child well hydrated, and comfortable during this time is very important. I recommend regular pain relief with paracetamol and ibuprofen, unless your child has been advised otherwise. Encourage normal eating as tolerated as this helps the throat heal - soft, cool foods may be more comfortable in the first few days after surgery. As with any surgery - there are possible complications. In the early period, these may include bleeding, pain, nausea, and vomiting - with dehydration being common in children who are reluctant to drink. Most complications are temporary and manageable, but can include secondary bleeding, which typically occurs between days five and ten. Some children experience temporary bad breath, taste changes, feeding reluctance, or radiated pain to the ears. Rarely, adenoid tissue may regrow, which can lead to symptoms returning. Call 999 and visit an NHS emergency department immediately if your child has fresh persistent bleeding. Occasionally emergency surgery is needed to arrest the bleeding - and on rare occasions a blood transfusion may also be required. The good news is that most children experience excellent long-term outcomes. Parents typically report improved sleep, better behaviour, and a noticeable improvement in their child's quality of life. Satisfaction with the results of surgery - is generally very high among families. If you have any questions about your child's care - please do not hesitate to ask. We are here to guide you through every step of this journey.