Tonsillectomy (cont.)
What takes place the day of surgery?
It is important that
the patient (or caregiver) knows precisely what time they are to
check in
with the surgical facility, and that they allow sufficient
preparation
time. Bring all papers, forms, and insurance information including the
preoperative
orders and history sheets. The patient should wear
comfortable
loose fitting clothes, (pajamas are OK). Leave all jewelry and
valuables
at home. Children may bring a favorite toy, stuffed animal, or
blanket.
The patient should not take any medication unless instructed by the doctor or
anesthesiologist. Usually in the pre-operative holding room, a
nurse will
start an intravenous infusion line (IV) and the patient may be given a
medication
to help them relax.
What happens during surgery?
In the operating room, the anesthesiologist will usually use a
mixture
of gas and an intravenous medication for the general
anesthetic. In most
situations, an IV will have been started either in the
preoperative
holding room or after the patient has been given a mask
anesthetic. During
the procedure, the patient will be continuously monitored
by a pulse
oximeter (measuring oxygen saturation) and a continuous heart rate
monitor. The
surgical team is
well trained and prepared for any emergency. In addition to the
surgeon
and anesthesiologist, there will be a nurse and a surgical
technician
in the room.
After the anesthetic takes effect, the doctor will remove the
tonsils
and/or adenoids through the mouth. There will be no external
incisions.
The base of the tonsils and/or adenoids will be burned
(cauterized) with
an electrical cauterizing unit. The whole procedure usually
takes less
than 60 minutes. The doctor will come to the waiting room to
talk with
any family or friends once the patient is safely transferred to the
recovery
room.
Next: What happens after surgery? »
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