What is Tonsillectomy?

Click here to view an animated version of this procedure.

Tonsillectomy is most often done when other nonsurgical treatments have not worked for:

• Chronic or recurrent tonsil infections—Tonsillectomy may reduce the number, but will not completely eliminate, these infections.
• Peritonsillar abscess (pocket of infection spreading outside the tonsil)
• Enlarged tonsils causing obstruction of the throat

The Tonsils © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a tonsillectomy, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:

• Bleeding

• Temporary breathing problems

• Adverse reaction to anesthesia

• Vomiting and dehydration

• Infection

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Obesity
• Smoking
• Poor nutrition
• Chronic illness
• Sickle cell anemia
• Bleeding disorders
• Recent or current steroid use
• Diabetes
• Intake of anticoagulants or aspirin products
• Dehydration

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before your tonsillectomy.

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the...