What is the term for the surgical removal of the tonsils?

The term for the surgical removal of the tonsils is known as tonsillectomy. This procedure specifically targets the tonsils, which are lymphoid tissues located at the back of the throat. Tonsillectomy is typically performed to treat conditions like recurrent tonsillitis or obstructive sleep apnea due to enlarged tonsils. The suffix "-ectomy" in medical terminology indicates the surgical removal of a specific organ or tissue, and in this case, it is combined with "tonsil," directly signifying the removal of the tonsils.

Other terms listed relate to different surgical procedures: adenectomy refers to the removal of a gland; salpingectomy involves the removal of a fallopian tube; and rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgery focused on reshaping the nose. Therefore, tonsillectomy is distinctly associated with the tonsils, making it the accurate term for that specific surgical procedure.