Amygdalectomy is a medical procedure that involves the surgical removal of tonsils or adenoids. Some synonyms for this word include tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, and palatine tonsillectomy. Tonsillectomy refers specifically to the removal of the tonsils, while adenoidectomy refers specifically to the removal of the adenoids. Palatine tonsillectomy refers to the removal of the tonsils located at the back of the throat. Other related medical terms include pharyngectomy, which involves the removal of part or all of the pharynx, and uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, which involves the removal of excess tissue in the back of the throat to treat obstructive sleep apnea.