An adenoidecomy is typically done for children between the ages of one and seven years. To determine if a child is a candidate for an adenoidectomy, the child’s pediatrician will examine the child’s adenoids, either with an endoscopy or an x-ray. The child’s adenoids may need to be removed if the child has chronic ear or throat infections that:
The doctor may request a blood test to check white and red blood cell count. This is done to make sure the child’s blood clots correctly and to ensure there won’t be excessive bleeding in the mouth during and after the adenoidectomy.
One week before surgery, parents should avoid giving their child any medication that can affect blood clotting, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Children should not eat or drink anything after midnight the day of the surgery.
The child may have a sore throat for two to three weeks after the procedure. They should drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration and alleviate pain.
Parents should avoid feeding them spicy, hot, hard, or crunchy foods. Good diet and food options include water, fruit juice, yogurt, pudding, apple sauce, warm chicken or beef broth, mashed potatoes and soft-cooked meats and vegetables.
For one week after surgery, the child should avoid strenuous physical activity. They may return to school three to five days after the procedure.
