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 . When Nailah Winkfield took her daughter to Children 's Hospital & Research Center in Oakland , California , for a tonsillectomy , she thought it would be a short stay . Patients should ask themselves if they really need the procedure , he says .
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 .