Our Summary

This research paper discusses a very uncommon side effect of adenoidectomy (surgery to remove the adenoids). The case presented is about a seven-year-old girl who experienced a carotid dissection (a tear in the wall of the carotid artery - the large artery in the neck that supplies blood to the brain) after her adenoidectomy. This tear led to a stroke that caused her to lose control of the right side of her body and lose her ability to speak. A CT scan showed a loop in the right carotid artery. The researchers believe a similar loop may have been present in the left carotid artery and was damaged during the surgery.

FAQs

  1. What are some rare complications of adenoidectomy?
  2. What is carotid artery dissection and how is it related to adenoidectomy?
  3. Can adenoidectomy lead to right hemiplegia and global aphasia?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about adenoidectomy is to be aware of the potential rare complication of carotid artery dissection. While this complication is extremely rare, it is important to be informed about the possibility and to seek immediate medical attention if any concerning symptoms develop after the procedure. It is crucial to follow post-operative care instructions carefully and to report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for adenoidectomy are those who suffer from chronic or recurrent infections of the adenoids, obstructive sleep apnea, chronic nasal congestion, chronic otitis media, and other related conditions. Adenoidectomy is commonly performed in children, but can also be recommended for adults in certain cases. It is important for patients to discuss their specific symptoms and medical history with their healthcare provider to determine if adenoidectomy is the appropriate treatment option for them.

Timeline

  • Before adenoidectomy: The patient may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, recurrent ear infections, snoring, and sleep apnea. The patient and their family may consult with an ENT specialist to discuss the need for adenoidectomy.

  • Day of surgery: The patient undergoes adenoidectomy under general anesthesia. The surgery typically lasts about 30 minutes to an hour.

  • After surgery: The patient may experience some pain and discomfort in the throat, as well as nasal congestion and a sore throat. The patient is usually discharged the same day or the day after surgery.

  • 1 week post-surgery: The patient may still experience some mild pain and congestion, but overall should be feeling better. Follow-up with the ENT specialist may be scheduled to ensure proper healing.

  • Months after surgery: The patient should experience improved breathing, reduced snoring, and fewer ear infections. The patient’s overall quality of life should be improved due to the removal of the adenoids.

In the rare case described above, the patient experienced a complication of carotid artery dissection following adenoidectomy, leading to significant neurological deficits. This serves as a reminder that while adenoidectomy is a common and generally safe procedure, there are potential risks and complications that should be discussed with the patient and their family before surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of adenoidectomy, including rare complications such as carotid artery dissection?

  2. How often do complications like carotid artery dissection occur during or after adenoidectomy?

  3. Are there any specific factors that may increase the risk of complications during adenoidectomy?

  4. What symptoms should I watch out for after the surgery that may indicate a complication like carotid artery dissection?

  5. How will you monitor me for potential complications during and after the surgery?

  6. What steps do you take to minimize the risk of complications during adenoidectomy?

  7. What is the plan for managing any potential complications that may arise during or after the surgery?

  8. Are there any alternative treatment options for my condition that may have lower risks of complications?

  9. How experienced are you in performing adenoidectomies and managing potential complications?

  10. Is there anything I can do before the surgery to reduce the risk of complications?

Reference

Authors: Garg A, Singh Y, Singh P, Goel G, Bhuyan S. Journal: Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2016 Mar;82:98-101. doi: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2015.12.017. Epub 2016 Jan 16. PMID: 26857324