Adenotonsillectomy with Radio Frequency
of the palate
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What is an Adenotonsillectomy with Radio Frequency of the Palate?
An Adenotonsillectomy with Radio Frequency of the Palate is a combination surgical procedure that involves the removal of the adenoids and tonsils, along with the application of radiofrequency energy to the palate.
The combination of adenotonsillectomy and radiofrequency of the palate is often considered in cases where there are concerns about both obstructive sleep-disordered breathing due to adenoid and tonsil enlargement and issues related to the structure and function of the soft palate.
The Procedure
Let’s break down the components of this procedure:
1. Adenotonsillectomy:
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- Adenoidectomy: The removal of the adenoids, which are small pads of tissue located at the back of the nasal cavity. Adenoids can sometimes become enlarged and contribute to breathing difficulties, particularly in children. Removing them may help improve airflow.
- Tonsillectomy: The removal of the tonsils, which are clusters of tissue on each side of the throat. Tonsillectomies are often performed when the tonsils are recurrently infected, enlarged, or causing obstruction to the airway.
2. Radio Frequency (RF) of the Palate:
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- Palate: This refers to the roof of the mouth, which includes the hard and soft palates. The soft palate, in particular, is involved in the production of sounds during speech and can contribute to snoring and sleep apnea when it is excessively floppy or elongated.
- Radio Frequency (RF) Ablation: This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to shrink or tighten tissues. In the context of the palate, RF can be applied to the soft palate to induce controlled tissue contraction. This aims to reduce the likelihood of airway obstruction during sleep, potentially alleviating symptoms of snoring and sleep apnea.
Treatment
As with any medical procedure, we will undergo a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and all possible underlying causes to determine the best treatment for you. The choice of treatment will depend on your specific circumstances, and alternative options may also be considered based on the diagnosis and severity of symptoms.
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