Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Efficient Isolation Protocol for B and T Lymphocytes from Human Palatine Tonsils
08:09

Efficient Isolation Protocol for B and T Lymphocytes from Human Palatine Tonsils

Published on: November 16, 2015

Impact of tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy on child behavior

N A Goldstein1, J C Post, R M Rosenfeld

  • 1Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn 11203-2098, USA. ngoldstein@netmail.hscbklyn.edu

Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|April 20, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A) significantly improved behavioral and emotional problems in children with upper airway obstruction. This study highlights the positive impact of T&A on children's behavior.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Otolaryngology
  • Child Psychology
  • Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • Chronic upper airway obstruction in children often presents with symptoms like snoring, observed apneas, and mouth breathing.
  • Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are common causes of upper airway obstruction in pediatric populations.
  • Behavioral and emotional problems are frequently observed in children with these conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effect of tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A) on behavioral and emotional issues in children.
  • To quantify changes in children's behavior using a standardized assessment tool before and after T&A.
  • To determine the prevalence of abnormal behavior in children undergoing T&A for chronic upper airway obstruction.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective study was conducted at a tertiary care children's hospital.
  • Thirty-six children (ages 2-18) with symptoms of upper airway obstruction underwent T&A.
  • The Child Behavior Checklist was administered preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively to assess behavioral and emotional problems.

Main Results:

  • Preoperatively, 28% of children exhibited abnormal behavior scores.
  • Following T&A, there was a statistically significant decrease in the mean total problem score on the Child Behavior Checklist (7.5 points lower).
  • While the number of abnormal scores decreased post-surgery, the change was not statistically significant in this pilot group.

Conclusions:

  • A significant proportion of children undergoing T&A for upper airway obstruction exhibit abnormal behavior.
  • T&A surgery is associated with significant improvements in standardized behavioral measures in children.
  • Larger studies are warranted to confirm the degree and clinical significance of behavioral improvements after T&A.
Abstract

More Related Videos

CO2-Lasertonsillotomy Under Local Anesthesia in Adults05:07

CO2-Lasertonsillotomy Under Local Anesthesia in Adults

Published on: November 6, 2019

Isolation of Tonsillar Mononuclear Cells to Study Ex Vivo Innate Immune Responses in a Human Mucosal Lymphoid Tissue07:38

Isolation of Tonsillar Mononuclear Cells to Study Ex Vivo Innate Immune Responses in a Human Mucosal Lymphoid Tissue

Published on: June 14, 2020

Related Concept Videos

Chronic Pharyngitis01:23

Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis refers to persistent inflammation of the pharyngial mucosa.
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Tonsillitis I: Introduction01:30

Tonsillitis I: Introduction

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, which are two lymphoid tissue masses at the back of the throat. This condition can cause discomfort and irritation in the throat.
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
Tonsillitis II: Management01:26

Tonsillitis II: Management

This lesson will focus on the different treatment options for managing tonsillitis, which typically depend on the cause and severity.
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway01:29

Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway

Nasopharyngeal suctioning is a procedure to remove secretions from the upper part of the respiratory tract that the patient cannot clear independently. It helps maintain airway patency and prevents complications such as aspiration pneumonia.
Equipment Required
Operant Conditioning Intervention01:24

Operant Conditioning Intervention

Operant conditioning serves as a foundational principle in therapeutic interventions aimed at modifying maladaptive behaviors. Central to this approach is the notion that behaviors, both adaptive and maladaptive, are learned through reinforcement. By analyzing the environmental factors that reinforce problematic behaviors, clinicians can design interventions to weaken these reinforcements and replace maladaptive behaviors with healthier alternatives.
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
Autism Spectrum Disorder01:19

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.