Adenoids are small masses of lymphatic tissue located on the posterior wall of the nasopharynx (part of the throat that communicates with the nasal passages). Together with the palatine tonsils, these formations contribute to carrying out an immune protective function, especially important during childhood. In some cases, however, the task of the adenoids may fail. The excessive increase in volume of the adenoids (adenoid hypertrophy) and their inflammation (adenoiditis) are common pathological conditions in children. If these diseases are the cause of airway obstruction or relapsing and drug-resistant infections, an indication is given to their removal (adenotomy).
Surgical removal of adenoids is usually recommended from 18 months of age and is performed under general anesthesia. Adenotomy is performed through the mouth or nose, by curettage (scraping) or ablation. To seal the operative wound, the surgeon may cauterize or apply resorbable sutures.
After adenotomy, many people with recurrent episodes of adenoiditis or adenoid hypertrophy report significant improvement.
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During early childhood, these formations constitute a first barrier against upper respiratory tract infections and favor immunization against microorganisms coming from the outside, which penetrate through the nose and mouth. Sometimes, however, this function fails and, after repeated bacterial or viral attacks, the adenoids are chronically inflamed or hypertrophic.
