Complications of adenotonsillectomy.

OBJECTIVE

To review the immediate, short-term, and long-term complications of adenotonsillectomy.

STUDY

DESIGN

Review.

METHODS

Complications of adenotonsillectomy and methods for preventing and treating them were reviewed.

RESULTS

The most common complications of adenotonsillectomy, such as bleeding, generally occur in the immediate perioperative period but can develop up to 2 weeks postoperatively. Long-term complications, such as nasopharyngeal stenosis, may appear months to years after surgery. These more unusual sequelae result from scar contracture and maturation.

CONCLUSION

Although rare, complications associated with adenotonsillectomy can be taxing for patients and health care resources. The most common complications, namely, anesthesia risks, pain, otalgia, and bleeding, should be discussed with patients' caregivers.