adenoidectomy /ad′ənoidek″təmē/ [Gk, aden + eidos, form, ektomē, excision] , the removal of lymphoid tissue in the nasopharynx. This surgical procedure may be performed because the adenoids are enlarged, chronically infected, or causing obstruction. Normal adenoids may be excised as a prophylactic measure during tonsillectomy. The operation is performed with general anesthesia in children, but local anesthesia may be used in adults. After removal of the adenoids, bleeding is stemmed with pressure, or vessels may be ligated with sutures or electrocoagulation current may be used. After surgery, the patient is observed for signs of hemorrhage, and the pulse, blood pressure, and respiration are checked every 15 minutes for the first hour and every 30 minutes for several hours thereafter. Discharge is usually the same day after recovery from anesthesia. Compare adenotonsillectomy, tonsillectomy.
