CPT® Code 42820

A tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the tonsils and adenoids, which are lymphoid tissues located in the throat and nasopharynx, respectively. This procedure is commonly performed on children under the age of 12 who may be experiencing recurrent infections, obstructive sleep apnea, or other related health issues. During the surgery, a mouth prop is utilized to keep the mouth open, allowing the surgeon clear access to the tonsils. Various techniques may be employed for the dissection of the tonsils, including the use of scissors, curettes, cautery, radiofrequency, laser ablation, or a harmonic scalpel. The standard approach involves making an incision in the mucosa with a sickle knife, followed by careful dissection of the tonsil from the surrounding tissue. Once the tonsil is fully detached, any remaining tissue is removed, and bleeding is managed through pressure, sutures, or cautery. The adenoids are also removed using specialized instruments such as an adenotome or adenoid curette, and the surgical site is thoroughly inspected to ensure complete removal of all tissue. This procedure is indicated for patients who are younger than 12 years of age, as denoted by the CPT® code 42820.