The tonsil and adenoid controversy

Abstract

This paper will review the anatomy, histology, immunology, bacteriology, indications, complications, and trends in modern tonsil and adenoid surgery. Information on tonsils and adenoids, both in their normal and abnormal states, has proliferated over the last two decades. A considerable variation in opinion remains on the subject. Historical fluctuations in the indications for tonsil and adenoid surgery have resulted in swings in the quantity of surgery performed. This paper will attempt to bring contemporary information together to provide reasonable guidelines for management of disease tonsils and adenoids.