Introduction: Revision adenoidectomy in children is an uncommon but significant undertaking, particularly in younger patients. Large cohort studies report revision rates of 1–3%, with younger age at initial surgery associated with increased risk. Persistent obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and middle-ear disease are the most frequently reported indications for revision. However, revision adenoidectomy outcomes in Afro-Caribbean children are limited.
Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of Afro-Caribbean children undergoing adenoidectomy at a tertiary centre over a five-year period. Data collected included demographics, age at primary and revision surgery, indications, and interval between procedures. Revision rates in the Afro-Caribbean cohort were compared with those of the overall paediatric adenoidectomy population during the same period. Subgroup analysis was performed for children aged under 3 years and those 3 years and older.
Results: A total of 128 Afro-Caribbean children underwent primary adenoidectomy (mean age 5.2 years), of whom nine required revision surgery (6.3%). Children requiring revision were younger at primary surgery (mean age 2.1 years), and most were for persistent OSA (88.9%). Afro-Caribbean children demonstrated a higher revision rate (6.3% vs 2.2%). The greatest disparity was observed in children under 3 years, with revision rates of 17.9% versus 2.0%. Revision rates for children 3 years and older were comparable (3.1% vs 2.3%). The mean interval between primary and revision surgery was 24.2 months.
Conclusion: Revision adenoidectomy occurred more frequently in Afro-Caribbean children under 3 years of age. Further research is needed to explore potential population-specific factors influencing adenoidal regrowth and revision risk.