Our Summary

This study tested two different ways of removing adenoids (small lumps of tissue at the back of the throat) in children between 5 and 12 years old. The first method was the traditional way (conventional cold curettage adenoidectomy) and the second was a new way using a special tool (endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy). The study found that the new way took longer, but it was better in other aspects. Specifically, it resulted in less blood loss, less pain after surgery, and no leftover adenoid tissue. This suggests that the new method may be a better choice for adenoid removal surgery.

FAQs

  1. What are the two different ways of removing adenoids mentioned in the study?
  2. What are the benefits of the new method (endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy) compared to the traditional way?
  3. Does the new method leave any adenoid tissue after the surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that the endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy method may result in less pain and bleeding after surgery compared to the traditional method, making it a potentially better choice for adenoid removal.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for adenoidectomy include:

  1. Children between the ages of 5 and 12 who have persistent or recurrent ear infections, sinus infections, or other upper respiratory infections that are not responding to other treatments.

  2. Children who have difficulty breathing through their nose due to enlarged adenoids, which can lead to mouth breathing, snoring, or sleep apnea.

  3. Children who have frequent nasal congestion or postnasal drip that is not relieved by medication.

  4. Children who have speech or swallowing difficulties due to enlarged adenoids blocking the airway.

  5. Children who have chronic or recurrent inflammation of the adenoids, leading to symptoms such as sore throat, bad breath, or a persistent cough.

It is important for parents to consult with a pediatrician or an ENT specialist to determine if adenoidectomy is the best treatment option for their child’s specific condition.

Timeline

Before the adenoidectomy:

  • The patient may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, sleep apnea, and frequent infections.
  • The patient and their family will meet with the doctor to discuss the surgery, risks, benefits, and recovery process.
  • The patient may undergo pre-operative testing such as blood tests and imaging studies.

After the adenoidectomy:

  • The patient will be taken to the operating room and given anesthesia.
  • The surgeon will remove the adenoids using either the traditional method or the endoscopic assisted coblation method.
  • The patient will be monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home.
  • The patient may experience some pain, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing in the days following surgery.
  • The patient will need to follow post-operative instructions such as resting, taking pain medication as prescribed, and avoiding certain activities.
  • The patient will have a follow-up appointment with the doctor to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the benefits of endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy compared to traditional cold curettage adenoidectomy?

  2. How long does the endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy procedure typically take?

  3. What is the expected recovery time for endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy compared to traditional cold curettage adenoidectomy?

  4. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy that I should be aware of?

  5. Will I experience less pain after surgery with endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy compared to traditional cold curettage adenoidectomy?

  6. Will there be any leftover adenoid tissue after endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy?

  7. How experienced are you in performing endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy procedures?

  8. Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after undergoing endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy?

  9. How soon can I expect to see improvement in my symptoms after undergoing endoscopic assisted coblation adenoidectomy?

  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider besides adenoidectomy for my condition?

Reference

Authors: Bidaye R, Vaid N, Desarda K. Journal: J Laryngol Otol. 2019 Apr;133(4):294-299. doi: 10.1017/S0022215119000227. Epub 2019 Mar 19. PMID: 30885281