An adenoidectomy and BMT are two surgical procedures that are often performed in conjunction with one another. An adenoidectomy involves removing the adenoid glands from the throat. This procedure may be recommended if the adenoid glands are severely swollen or inflamed due to an infection or allergy. A BMT, medically referred to as a bilateral myringotomy with tubes, is a surgical procedure that aims to remove fluid from the ears and to reduce future infections from occurring. 

These procedures are often performed together to treat conditions affecting the ears, nose, and throat. This is a common option for patients who have recurring otitis media, which is an infection in the middle ear that causes fluid to build up behind the eardrum. A doctor may recommend this procedure if conservative methods are ineffective.

When is This Procedure Necessary?

An adenoidectomy with myringotomy and ear tube placement is a common surgical procedure performed on children with chronic ear problems. It is an option for individuals who have swollen adenoids and struggle with recurring otitis media. 

Conditions relating to the ears, nose, and throat are significantly more common in children than adults because their sinus drainage systems are not yet fully developed, making infections more common. An ENT specialist may recommend an adenoidectomy with a BMT procedure if:

• The child has difficulty breathing
• The child has recurring sinus and ear infections
• The child has otitis media
• The child has intense pressure in the ears

What To Expect

Patients will be under general anesthesia so they will not experience any discomfort throughout the surgery. During the adenoidectomy portion of the procedure, the surgeon will remove the adenoid glands using a small instrument. Next, the surgeon will create tiny holes in both eardrums to allow built-up fluid to drain. A tube is then placed at the end to prevent it from closing too soon. These tubes will typically fall out on their own, but sometimes a removal procedure is necessary. 

After the procedure, the patient will be removed from the anesthesia. Patients will be given instructions that must be followed for a successful recovery. Since this procedure is typically performed on children, it is important that parents and guardians ensure the child is closely following the recovery directions.

Contact the team at Smith Medical to learn more today.

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