James McMath , 13 , was pronounced brain - dead after a fall . Tonsillectomies are the third most common surgical procedure for young children . Complications are rare , but uncontrolled complications can happen . Patients should ask themselves if they really need the procedure , he says .
Jahi McMath , 13 , was declared brain-dead after a tonsillectomy . Tonsillectomies are the third most common surgical procedure for U.S. children . Complications are rare , but uncontrolled bleeding can happen . Patients should ask themselves if they really need the surgery , expert says .