Our Summary

This research paper compares two surgical methods for removing adenoids in children: the endoscopic modified microdebrider adenectomy (EMMA), and the traditional cold blade adenectomy. The EMMA is a newer technique, developed by the authors, that uses a small, precise cutting tool. The study looked at the long-term effects of these surgeries on 203 children who underwent EMMA and 25 who underwent cold blade adenectomy. The results were evaluated by surveying the parents and through clinical examinations of the children 12-24 months after surgery.

The study found that the EMMA technique was 22.02% more effective in restoring normal nasal breathing and reduced the frequency of acute respiratory infections by 22.5% compared to the cold blade technique. The EMMA method, used in combination with another procedure called tympanopuncture, also improved auditory function in children with a specific type of ear inflammation caused by enlarged adenoids.

The conclusion is that the EMMA technique is a safe and effective way to treat children with enlarged adenoids. It leads to better nasal breathing and less frequent respiratory infections compared to the traditional method.

FAQs

  1. What are the two surgical methods for removing adenoids in children compared in this study?
  2. What were the long-term effects of the EMMA technique on children’s nasal breathing and respiratory infection frequency compared to the traditional cold blade technique?
  3. How does the EMMA technique affect auditory function in children with a specific type of ear inflammation caused by enlarged adenoids?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about adenoidectomy is to consider the newer endoscopic modified microdebrider adenectomy (EMMA) technique, as it has been shown to be more effective in restoring normal nasal breathing and reducing the frequency of respiratory infections compared to the traditional cold blade method. It may also improve auditory function in children with specific ear inflammation caused by enlarged adenoids. Discuss with your doctor which surgical method may be best for you or your child’s condition.

Suitable For

Adenoidectomy is typically recommended for patients who have enlarged adenoids that are causing symptoms such as nasal obstruction, snoring, sleep apnea, chronic sinus infections, and ear infections. Children with recurrent ear infections or hearing loss due to enlarged adenoids may also benefit from adenoidectomy. In some cases, adenoidectomy may be recommended for children with speech or swallowing difficulties caused by enlarged adenoids.

Overall, children who have persistent symptoms related to enlarged adenoids that do not respond to conservative treatments such as antibiotics or nasal steroid sprays may be candidates for adenoidectomy. It is important for parents to discuss their child’s symptoms with a healthcare provider to determine if adenoidectomy is the best treatment option for their child.

Timeline

Before the adenoidectomy:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, sleep apnea, and frequent sinus infections.
  • Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as a physical examination, nasal endoscopy, and imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis of enlarged adenoids.
  • Patient and their parents discuss the surgical options with their healthcare provider and decide on the best course of treatment.

After the adenoidectomy:

  • Patient undergoes the adenoidectomy surgery, either using the traditional cold blade technique or the newer EMMA technique.
  • Patient may experience some discomfort and pain in the throat and nose following the surgery.
  • Patient is monitored closely by healthcare providers for any complications or side effects of the surgery.
  • Over the following weeks and months, patient gradually experiences improved nasal breathing, reduced snoring, and fewer respiratory infections.
  • Patient undergoes follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to evaluate the long-term effects of the surgery 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 surgery?
  2. How will adenoidectomy improve my symptoms and overall health?
  3. What is the recovery process like after adenoidectomy surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered for my condition?
  5. How long will it take for me to see improvement in my symptoms after adenoidectomy?
  6. Will adenoidectomy affect my child’s speech or voice in any way?
  7. How often will follow-up appointments be needed after adenoidectomy?
  8. Are there any dietary or activity restrictions that should be followed after adenoidectomy?
  9. What is the success rate of adenoidectomy surgery in children?
  10. Can you explain the differences between the traditional cold blade adenectomy and the endoscopic modified microdebrider adenectomy (EMMA) techniques?

Reference

Authors: Shkorbotun V, Liakh K, Shkorbotun Y. Journal: Georgian Med News. 2022 Feb;(323):106-111. PMID: 35271480