Ways of removing tonsil stones
Getting rid of tonsil stones has long been a challenge. Because they can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, many methods and tools have been tried in practice. Below is an overview of the most common approaches, with their pros and cons, arranged from the most conservative to the most radical.
Manual removal
Probably the most common method is trying to “squeeze out” or “pick out” the stone. People use a variety of tools such as a spatula, the handle of a spoon or special pick-like instruments. Some even attempt to use their fingers, which is strongly discouraged.
When squeezing, extreme care should be taken, and instruments should ideally be sterilized.
Advantages:
- Can be done at home
- (Almost) free
Disadvantages:
- Risk of injuring the tonsil
- Risk of introducing infection
- Only works for stones near the surface
- Stones may be pushed deeper into the crypt
- Possible only from the accessible/visible side of the tonsil
Syringe irrigation
Flushing with a syringe fitted with a thin, blunt tip (e.g. a cannula) is a method often used in ENT clinics. The tip is inserted into a sufficiently large tonsil crypt, into which water is injected under pressure. This can flush out the crypt and release the stone. However, in smaller crypts the water often pushes the stone deeper instead of removing it.
Advantages:
- Suitable for large, easily located crypts
- Safe when performed by a doctor
Disadvantages:
- Time-consuming
- Uncertain outcome (stone may be pushed in further)
- Water running down the throat can cause a choking sensation
- Only possible from the accessible/visible side of the tonsil
Suction jet – a new technology
The suction jet is a modern technology designed specifically for cleaning tonsils. A tip matching the size of the tonsil is placed against it, and water is flushed into the crypts while being simultaneously suctioned out along with the loosened stones and debris.
Advantages:
- Deep cleaning of the entire tonsil
- Removes debris and secretions at an early stage
- Minimal risk thanks to professional operation
- Comfortable for the patient
Disadvantages:
- Requires a visit to a specialist clinic
- Not free
Coblation cryptolysis
Coblation is a surgical technique used to smooth the openings of the crypts so that less debris can accumulate in them. However, the effect may not be long-lasting, as crypts often reopen. Each procedure also removes a portion of tonsil tissue, so it cannot be repeated indefinitely.
Advantages:
- Performed professionally under supervision
Disadvantages:
- Uncertain long-term effect
- Surgical procedure under general anaesthesia
- Requires recovery time
- Costly
- Not always effective in larger crypts
Tonsil removal (tonsillectomy)
Tonsillectomy, or surgical removal of the tonsils, is the only truly “definitive” method of eliminating tonsil stones. However, it carries risks. Removing the tonsils disrupts the immune system, which can have unwanted consequences. In some cases, stones may even begin to form in the residual tissue left behind.
There are several surgical techniques, which vary in suitability, complexity, cost, benefits and risks.
Advantages:
- Most effective solution (depending on the surgical technique used)
- Long-lasting effect
Disadvantages:
- Surgical procedure under general anaesthesia
- Lengthy recovery
- Risk of post-operative complications (especially bleeding)
- Disruption of the immune system
Next steps
Topics
Everything you need to know about tonsil stones
Ways of removing tonsil stones
Maintaining tonsil hygiene
Everything you need to know about tonsil stones
Ways of removing tonsil stones