Our Summary

This study looked at the levels of two substances in the blood (insulin-like growth factor-1 and ghrelin) in children who either have an enlarged adenoid gland and/or an ear infection with fluid buildup (otitis media with effusion), both before and after removal of the adenoid (adenoidectomy).

The researchers found that the levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 were lower in kids with the ear infection or enlarged adenoid than in healthy kids, but after having their adenoid removed, these levels increased. There was also a significant difference in ghrelin levels between the kids with these conditions and the healthy kids.

These findings suggest that removing the enlarged adenoid can increase the level of insulin-like growth factor-1 in the blood, which might help with the child’s growth.

FAQs

  1. What are the two substances that the study focused on in children’s blood related to enlarged adenoids and ear infections?
  2. How does adenoidectomy affect the levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 and ghrelin in children?
  3. Does the removal of the enlarged adenoid have an impact on a child’s growth?

Doctor’s Tip

It’s important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully, including taking any prescribed medications and attending follow-up appointments. It’s also important to monitor your child’s growth and overall health after the adenoidectomy to ensure they are recovering well. If you have any concerns or notice any changes in your child’s health, be sure to contact your doctor.

Suitable For

Adenoidectomy is typically recommended for patients who have:

  1. Enlarged adenoids causing symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, sleep apnea, frequent sinus infections, or chronic ear infections.
  2. Chronic or recurrent ear infections with fluid buildup (otitis media with effusion) that does not improve with antibiotics or other treatments.
  3. Persistent or recurrent sinus infections or sinusitis.
  4. Speech or swallowing difficulties caused by enlarged adenoids obstructing the airway.
  5. Dental or orthodontic issues caused by enlarged adenoids interfering with normal jaw and teeth development.

Timeline

Before adenoidectomy:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, snoring, nasal congestion, and recurrent ear infections
  • Patient may undergo diagnostic tests such as a physical examination, nasal endoscopy, and imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis of enlarged adenoids
  • Surgery may be recommended if symptoms are severe and impacting the patient’s quality of life

After adenoidectomy:

  • Patient will undergo the surgical procedure to remove the adenoid gland, typically performed under general anesthesia
  • Patient may experience mild pain, sore throat, and nasal congestion after the surgery
  • Recovery time is usually quick, with most patients able to return to normal activities within a week
  • Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and ensure proper healing
  • Patient may experience improved breathing, reduced snoring, and decreased frequency of ear infections after the adenoidectomy

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with adenoidectomy?

  2. How will the procedure be performed and what is the expected recovery time?

  3. Will adenoidectomy improve any symptoms or conditions I am currently experiencing, such as ear infections or difficulty breathing?

  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before proceeding with adenoidectomy?

  5. Will the removal of the adenoid affect my child’s growth and development in any way?

  6. How often do adenoids grow back after removal?

  7. Are there any long-term effects or considerations to be aware of after adenoidectomy?

  8. What can I expect in terms of post-operative care and follow-up appointments?

  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions that should be followed after adenoidectomy?

  10. How will adenoidectomy affect my child’s overall health and well-being in the long term?

Reference

Authors: Żelazowska-Rutkowska B, Jacewicz K, Kasprzycka E, Skotnicka B, Cylwik B. Journal: Otolaryngol Pol. 2020 Mar 17;74(4):13-17. doi: 10.5604/01.3001.0014.0223. PMID: 32636349