What is the term for the surgical procedure to remove tonsils?

The term for the surgical procedure to remove tonsils is tonsillectomy. This operation specifically targets the tonsils, which are lymphoid tissues located at the back of the throat, and is commonly performed to treat recurrent tonsillitis or obstructive sleep apnea. Removing the tonsils can help alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions.

The other terms refer to different surgical procedures: adenoidectomy is the removal of the adenoids, which are located in the nasal cavity; appendectomy refers to the removal of the appendix, which is part of the gastrointestinal system; and cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Each of these procedures addresses specific medical issues and is distinct from tonsillectomy.