Long-term consequences of tonsillectomies

A recent Cochrane review concluded tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies had only modest short-term benefits for children who suffer recurring tonsillitis or sore throats.

Furthermore, tonsils and adenoids are an important part of a child’s immune system and probably should be left alone.

A follow-up study of more than one million Danish children suggests that medics are right to have concerns about these surgical procedures.

Removal of the adenoids or tonsils before the age of nine resulted in a doubling of longterm risks of respiratory diseases and a smaller increase in the risk of allergic disease.