What Are Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat Conditions?
Problems commonly seen in childhood, such as enlarged tonsils, adenoids and fluid buildup in the middle ear, can directly affect a child's sleep quality, hearing and overall development. In the field of pediatric ENT in Ankara, Prof. Dr. Ömer Karakoç works with the family to carry out both the diagnostic and treatment process, prioritising the child's comfort.
Symptoms / Who Is a Candidate
- Constant mouth breathing and snoring.
- Breathing pauses during sleep or restless sleep.
- Frequently recurring tonsil/throat infections.
- Suspected hearing loss, turning the TV/volume up too loud.
- Nasal congestion, post-nasal drip.
Diagnostic Methods
Tonsil and adenoid size is assessed with a painless endoscopic examination tailored for children. In children with suspected hearing issues, audiometric tests and tympanometry, which measures middle ear pressure, are performed. The assessment is carried out appropriately for the child's age and as comfortably as possible.
Treatment Process
- Adenoid and Tonsil Surgery: Performed using bloodless methods such as radiofrequency and thermal welding, with less pain and bleeding compared to traditional techniques.
- Ear Tube Insertion: For fluid buildup in the middle ear causing hearing loss, a small tube is inserted to drain the fluid and ensure ventilation.
Procedures are performed under general anaesthesia, as day cases or with short-term hospital follow-up.
Recovery Process
After adenoid/tonsil surgery, children generally return to normal eating and activities within a few days; a return to school is usually possible within 1 week. A rapid improvement in hearing is observed after ear tube placement.
Why Choose Prof. Dr. Ömer Karakoç?
For paediatric patients, both medical accuracy and the child and family approaching the process with confidence are important. At his clinic in Çankaya, Ankara, Prof. Dr. Ömer Karakoç offers an approach that prioritises communication with the family from consultation through to post-operative check-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can adenoid surgery be performed?
There is no strict age limit for adenoid surgery; the decision is made based on the severity of the child's symptoms (sleep apnea, frequent infections, hearing impact) and examination findings. It can be performed at a young age if deemed necessary.
Does removing the tonsils weaken a child's immunity?
Tonsils are not the sole source of immunity; their removal does not lead to a noticeable weakening of overall immunity. The decision for surgery is based on criteria such as the frequency of recurrent infections and size.
When is ear tube insertion needed?
Ear tube insertion is considered when there is long-standing fluid buildup in the middle ear that affects hearing and does not respond to medical treatment.
When can a child return to school after surgery?
Most children can return to school around 1 week after adenoid/tonsil surgery. The exact time can vary depending on the child's recovery speed and the scope of the procedure.
My child constantly breathes through their mouth, is this normal?
Constant mouth breathing usually points to nasal congestion or enlarged adenoids/tonsils and can affect facial development in the long term. It is recommended that this be assessed by an ENT specialist.
Book an Appointment
Book an online appointment to get detailed information about Pediatric ENT or for a consultation.
Book Now