Y Hui, BYH Wong

Abstract

Children with tonsils and adenoid problems are often managed by both the paediatrician and otolaryngologist. Otolaryngologists are involved when surgical treatment is necessary. This paper discuss the issues that otolaryngologist usually encounter, including selection of patient for surgery, pre-operative councilling, and surgical complication. New surgical tools are available. Yet dissection with cold steel e.g. scissors and curette, is still the technique to beat. There is a recent interest in tonsil volume reduction by subcapsular removal of tissue, thereby reducing both the obstruction and postoperative morbidity. Long term follow up is necessary to define it's role in management of patients with obstructive sleep apnoea.