Our Summary

This research paper looked at the difference between two methods of performing an adenoidectomy (removal of the adenoids) in children: coblation and microdebrider with touch-up electrocautery (ME). They conducted an experiment with 101 children, half of which had the coblation method and the other half had the ME method. They found that the coblation method was faster, resulted in less blood loss during surgery, and had a shorter period of pain after the operation. All of this suggests that the coblation method might be a better choice for removing adenoids in children.

FAQs

  1. What were the two methods of performing an adenoidectomy that were compared in this research?
  2. What were the advantages of the coblation method over the microdebrider with touch-up electrocautery (ME) method according to this study?
  3. Based on this research, which method is suggested to be a better choice for adenoid removal in children?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about adenoidectomy is to discuss with them the different methods of surgery available, such as coblation and microdebrider with touch-up electrocautery, and recommend the method that may result in less pain and faster recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended adenoidectomy include:

  • Children who have frequent infections of the adenoids, such as chronic or recurrent tonsillitis or sinusitis
  • Children who have obstructive sleep apnea or other breathing difficulties caused by enlarged adenoids
  • Children who have difficulty breathing through their nose due to enlarged adenoids
  • Children who have recurrent ear infections or fluid in the middle ear (otitis media) caused by enlarged adenoids

Overall, adenoidectomy may be recommended for children who have persistent or severe symptoms related to enlarged adenoids that do not improve with other treatments.

Timeline

Before adenoidectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, snoring, and frequent sinus infections.
  2. Patient consults with an ENT specialist who recommends adenoidectomy as a treatment option.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to assess their overall health and suitability for surgery.

After adenoidectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes adenoidectomy surgery, which typically lasts about 30-45 minutes.
  2. Patient is closely monitored in the recovery room for any complications or side effects.
  3. Patient may experience sore throat, ear pain, and mild discomfort in the days following surgery.
  4. Patient is prescribed pain medication and instructed on post-operative care, including avoiding strenuous activities and eating soft foods.
  5. Patient follows up with their ENT specialist for a post-operative check-up to ensure proper healing and recovery.
  6. Patient experiences improvement in symptoms such as improved breathing, reduced snoring, and decreased sinus infections in the weeks and months following surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  2. How long is the recovery period after an adenoidectomy and what can I expect during this time?

  3. Will there be any restrictions on activities or diet following the surgery?

  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure and are there any risks associated with it?

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

  6. How many adenoidectomies have you performed using the coblation method or the ME method, and what is your success rate with each technique?

  7. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of improvement in symptoms and overall quality of life?

  8. Will my child need to follow up with you after the surgery, and if so, how often?

  9. How long will the effects of the adenoidectomy last, and is there a chance that the adenoids could grow back?

  10. Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with having the adenoids removed at a young age?

Reference

Authors: Mularczyk C, Walner DL, Hamming KK. Journal: Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2018 Jan;104:29-31. doi: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2017.10.033. Epub 2017 Oct 25. PMID: 29287875