A 7-year-old child presents with bilateral nasal obstruction, mouth breathing, and a 'adenoid facies' appearance. Nasal endoscopy reveals adenoid hypertrophy obstructing 80% of the nasopharynx. The child has no history of recurrent tonsillitis. What is the most appropriate surgical management?

• A Adenotonsillectomy
• B Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty
• C Tonsillectomy alone
• D Adenoidectomy alone ✓

Explanation

When adenoid hypertrophy alone causes significant nasal obstruction without recurrent tonsillitis, adenoidectomy alone is the appropriate procedure. Tonsillectomy is indicated only when tonsillar disease meets specific criteria (recurrent tonsillitis or tonsillar hypertrophy causing obstruction). Performing unnecessary tonsillectomy increases surgical risk without added benefit.

Reference: Cummings Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.