Which surgical procedure removes both the tonsils and adenoids?

• A. Adenoidectomy
• B. Tonsillectomy
• C. Tracheostomy
• D. Cholecystectomy

Answer: (B)

The surgical procedure that removes both the tonsils and adenoids is correctly identified. This procedure is referred to as a tonsillectomy when the tonsils are specifically targeted. However, when the operation includes both the tonsils and adenoids, it is commonly known as a tonsillectomy with adenoidectomy or simply a tonsillectomy that encompasses both structures.

Adenoidectomy refers to the removal of only the adenoids, which does not encompass the tonsils. Tracheostomy is a procedure to create an opening in the trachea to facilitate breathing and is unrelated to the removal of tonsils or adenoids. Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, which is also not connected to tonsil or adenoid surgery. Therefore, recognizing the tonsillectomy as involving the tonsils is pivotal, but it's important to note that when both structures are removed, the full term used is specifically clarified in medical contexts.