Adenoidectomy

General Information:

  Adenoidectomy is the removal of the adenoid pad. The adenoids are tissue located behind the nose in the top of the throat. Following surgery, your child may lack energy for several days, and may also be restless at night. This will improve over 3 to 4 days after an adenoidectomy.

Diet:

  It is important that your child drink plenty of fluids for the first three days. Clear liquids are usually given immediately following surgery. Clear liquids might include apple juice, soda/pop, Jello, or popsicles. Most children begin eating a light diet the first day of surgery. These foods may include soups, potatoes, bananas, eggs and applesauce. Your child can eat a normal diet
when he/she feels ready. Your doctor will notify you of any diet restrictions.

Activity:

  The child should rest at home for the first 24 hours. Vigorous physical activity should be avoided for the first three to four days. Some slight bleeding can result if the child becomes overactive too soon. After three to four days, the child's activity level can gradually be increased to normal.

Pain:

  Pain is usually minimal after adenoidectomy, but your child may experience a mild sore throat or a headache for 2 to 3 days that can be relieved by acetaminophen (Tylenol, Tempra, and Panadol). Do not use aspirin, ibuprofen, or Pepto Bismol as these may increase the risk of bleeding.

  About five to seven days following surgery an earache or neck pain are common and is usually relieved with acetominophen or ibuprofen. However if the neck pain is very severe, or it does not get better in 48 to 72 hours after Motrin or Advil (ibuprofen) use, please notify your doctor.

Bad Breath:

  Bad breath is very common for up to 3 weeks due to healing of the back of the nose. Saline nasal spray, chewing gum, or hard candy may help with this. Some children mouth breathe or snore during the recovery period due to swelling. Propping your child up with pillows may lessen snoring.

Bleeding:

  There should be no bleeding from the nose or mouth. If any bleeding occurs that is heavy or doesn�t quickly stop, sit your child upright and phone your doctor. If you are unable to reach your doctor, bring your child to the emergency room to be checked.

Fever:

  It is normal for a child to have a slight fever (99o to 101o) for the first few days following an adenoidectomy. Have your child drink plenty of fluids and use an acetaminophen, non- aspirin product to keep the fever down (no aspirin, ibuprofen or Pepto Bismol). If the fever is over 102o contact your doctor.

Nausea/Vomiting:

  It is not unusual for the child to feel sick after an adenoidectomy. If vomiting persists for more than 6 hours, contact your doctor.

For Questions:
Call the office at 662-327-4432.