Why is a Tonsillectomy carried out with general anasthesia?

Question

I am not having one or anything but I read a Wikipedia article that said that the so called "Dissection and snare method" can only be done with general anesthesia and alot of other wen sites also mention general anesthesia but not the name of this particular method. does anybody know why this is as this does not seem like a very invasive procedure and one study that I found even recommended a local so why is it done this way?

Answer 1

Its much easier to do spinal blocks and epidurals for procedures below the waist.  If they were done above the waist your lungs would be paralyzed and you couldn't breathe.  With a tonsillectomy the doctors don't want you awake because of your gag reflux and the possibility of vomiting.  Your right about it being an easier surgery.  But done the wrong way the complications would be very bad.  For example vomiting during the procedure and having the vomit go into your lungs.