Will adenoid hypertrophy recur after surgery?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 18, 2024
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The adenoid is a normal lymphoid organ in the nasopharyngeal area of the human body. Enlargement of the adenoids can block the nasal cavity, leading to otitis media, snoring during sleep, and other symptoms. The main treatment for enlarged adenoids is surgery. Since the adenoids do not have a complete capsule, there is a certain chance of recurrence after surgery. There are two scenarios for recurrence: one is a mild, localized proliferation that does not cause symptoms such as snoring or otitis media again; the other is a severe enlargement of the adenoids, leading to the reoccurrence of spontaneous conditions like snoring and otitis media. This latter situation accounts for about 0.5% of cases. Therefore, while there is a certain rate of recurrence after adenoidectomy, the rate of recurrence is relatively low.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can adenoid hypertrophy recur after removal?

The adenoid is located in the lymphatic epithelial tissue of the nasopharyngeal area. Enlargement of the adenoid can block breathing and obstruct the pharyngeal opening of the Eustachian tube, leading to secretory otitis media, and may result in secondary infections of the sinuses. Therefore, for symptoms such as snoring and hearing loss that occur simultaneously after adenoid enlargement, surgical removal is performed. The adenoid does not have a complete capsule, so it is only possible to remove the adenoid tissue as much as possible, and it cannot guarantee the complete removal of all adenoid tissue. Therefore, there is a small rate of recurrence after adenoid removal, with a recurrence rate of about 0.5%, meaning that the recurrence leading to the reappearance of symptoms is around 0.5%. Whether further treatment is needed after recurrence requires an in-person assessment at a hospital.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
53sec home-news-image

Will adenoid hypertrophy recur after surgery?

The adenoid is a normal lymphoid organ in the nasopharyngeal area of the human body. Enlargement of the adenoids can block the nasal cavity, leading to otitis media, snoring during sleep, and other symptoms. The main treatment for enlarged adenoids is surgery. Since the adenoids do not have a complete capsule, there is a certain chance of recurrence after surgery. There are two scenarios for recurrence: one is a mild, localized proliferation that does not cause symptoms such as snoring or otitis media again; the other is a severe enlargement of the adenoids, leading to the reoccurrence of spontaneous conditions like snoring and otitis media. This latter situation accounts for about 0.5% of cases. Therefore, while there is a certain rate of recurrence after adenoidectomy, the rate of recurrence is relatively low.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
48sec home-news-image

Can adenoid hypertrophy cause otitis media?

Adenoid hypertrophy is commonly seen in children. The adenoids are located at the back of the nasal cavity, more precisely, at the nasopharyngeal region of the posterior nasal cavity. The nasal cavity is connected to the ears via the Eustachian tube, whose internal opening is situated in the nasopharynx. If the adenoids are enlarged, they can block the internal opening of the Eustachian tube. Therefore, adenoid hypertrophy can cause secretory otitis media. The common symptoms of secretory otitis media in children include a decrease in hearing, turning up the volume of the TV intentionally, and a sluggish response when called. This explains the mechanism and clinical presentation of how adenoid hypertrophy can lead to otitis media.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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What tests are needed for adenoid hypertrophy?

The adenoids are located at the back end of the nasal cavity in the nasopharyngeal area, so the examination needed for adenoid hypertrophy is generally the electronic nasopharyngoscopy. Electronic nasopharyngoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visual observation of the enlarged adenoids and the blockage of the posterior nasal apertures. Modern electronic nasopharyngoscopes are very thin; they can be inserted through the nostrils directly into the nasopharynx, providing a clear view of the adenoids with minimal discomfort and no radiation exposure, making it the preferred method. Another test that can be performed is a lateral X-ray of the nasopharynx. This examination has been a classic approach and is available in many township and county hospitals. It can accurately display the condition of adenoid hypertrophy and any airway obstruction. However, the only drawback is that it involves some level of radiation exposure.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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Can you drink milk with enlarged adenoids?

Patients with adenoid hypertrophy can consume milk. The adenoids, also known as the pharyngeal tonsils, are a common ENT disorder, occurring mostly in children. The adenoid tissues become hyperplastic and active, blocking the posterior nasal passages and causing symptoms such as snoring during nighttime sleep, nasal congestion, runny nose, and sinusitis. When adenoid hypertrophy occurs, surgery is primarily used for treatment. In terms of diet, patients can consume milk and eggs, but should avoid cold and spicy foods to prevent exacerbating the swelling and congestion of the adenoids.