Our Summary

The researchers looked at whether removing enlarged adenoids or tonsils (a condition known as Adenoid or adenotonsillar hypertrophy or AATH) in children could improve their heart function. They collected data from 13 different studies involving 706 participants.

The results showed that having this surgery significantly improved several indicators of heart function. For example, the pressure in the pulmonary artery (a major blood vessel) decreased, an indicator of improved heart health. The function of the left and right ventricles (the two main pumping chambers of the heart) also improved, and the size of these chambers decreased.

Interestingly, after the surgery, there was no significant difference in these heart function indicators between the children who had the surgery and healthy children.

In simple terms, the study suggests that removing enlarged adenoids or tonsils can help improve heart health in children with this condition.

FAQs

  1. Can removing enlarged adenoids or tonsils improve heart function in children?
  2. What were the findings of the studies on adenoidectomy and heart health in children?
  3. How does adenoidectomy affect the heart function indicators in children compared to healthy children?

Doctor’s Tip

Helpful tip: After undergoing an adenoidectomy, it is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully. This may include rest, staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities, and taking prescribed medications. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure optimal healing. If you experience any unusual symptoms or complications after the surgery, be sure to contact your doctor immediately.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended adenoidectomy are children with adenoid or adenotonsillar hypertrophy, which can lead to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, sleep apnea, frequent infections, and other related issues. This surgery may be recommended if conservative treatments have not been effective in managing these symptoms.

Timeline

Before adenoidectomy:

  • Child experiences symptoms such as difficulty breathing, snoring, nasal congestion, and frequent ear infections.
  • Parent and child consult with an ENT specialist who recommends adenoidectomy as a treatment option.
  • Pre-operative testing and evaluation are conducted to ensure the child is a suitable candidate for surgery.

After adenoidectomy:

  • Surgery is performed to remove the enlarged adenoids.
  • Child may experience some discomfort, pain, and swelling in the throat following the procedure.
  • Recovery period typically involves taking pain medication, resting, and avoiding certain foods and activities.
  • Symptoms such as snoring, nasal congestion, and ear infections gradually improve or disappear.
  • Follow-up appointments with the ENT specialist are scheduled to monitor the child’s progress and ensure proper healing.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about adenoidectomy include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with adenoidectomy?
  2. How will the surgery be performed and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  3. Will removing my child’s enlarged adenoids improve their heart function?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that could be considered before opting for surgery?
  5. How long will it take for my child to fully recover from the surgery?
  6. Will my child need any follow-up appointments or care after the surgery?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or implications of having an adenoidectomy?
  8. How can I best support my child during their recovery period?

Reference

Authors: Sun YL, Yuan B, Kong F, Li XM. Journal: Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2022 Mar;279(3):1147-1156. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-06986-0. Epub 2021 Jul 16. PMID: 34269887