Jahi McMath , 13 , was declared brain-dead after a tonsillectomy . While not as common in adults , tonsillectomy joins the list of other common surgical procedures , such as appendectomy , cholecystectomy ( gallbladder removal ) and cesarean section . Tonsillectomies are the third most common surgical procedure for U.S. children . They can be performed to remove tumors or treat other conditions that affect brain function. Patients should ask themselves if they really need the surgery , expert says .
Jahi McMath , 13 , was declared brain-dead after a tonsillectomy . Tonsillectomies are the third most common surgical procedure for U.S. children . They can be performed to remove tumors or treat other conditions that affect brain function. Patients should ask themselves if they really need the surgery , expert says .