Adenoids in Children
The adenoids are situated at the back of the throat, above the palate and behind the nose. They are similar to the tonsils and have the same function. As a result of repeated minor infections they may become so large that they block the openings of the two fines tubes (the Eustachian tubes) that drain fluid from the middle ear. Fluid will then accumulate in the middle ear, and may interface with its function so that the child becomes deaf. Removal of the adenoids (adenoidectomy) may then be necessary to reopen the drainage channels and restore hearing.