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Tonsillectomy

What Is a Tonsillectomy?

Adult patients with swollen, infected tonsils may require a tonsillectomy if their problem recurs too often.  During a tonsillectomy, the patient receives general anesthesia, and those with a medical history of chest problems in the past receive oxygen through a facemask for a few hours.   

The surgeon uses a diathermia to apply heat to the tonsils, which removes them and stems any potential bleeding simultaneously.  Once the tonsils are out, if no signs of infection are apparent, the patient may leave the hospital 1 to 2 days after their tonsillectomy.   

Post surgery, the patient may have a sore throat and stiff jaws as well as a mild earache.  Painkillers are available to relieve the discomfort.  Patients should eat plenty of soft foods after the tonsillectomy (adult) to soothe the throat and assist the healing process.  Solid food may be difficult to swallow initially, but should be eaten in normal quantities to clean the throat.  The swallowing action wards off infection, soreness, and bleeding, all of which would prolong the patient’s stay in the hospital.  The consumption of hard or sharp food (ex: potato chips, cornflakes, and toast) is usually discouraged for the first week.  Most patients are able to drive within 1 to 2 days after the operation and return to work within 10 days.