The West operation is a surgical procedure that was developed by American otolaryngologist James McKee West in 1913. It was named after the scientist who developed it.
The operation was developed to treat chronic tonsillitis, a disease characterized by inflammation of the tonsils located in the throat. Chronic tonsillitis can cause serious complications such as rheumatism, heart disease and other health problems.
West surgery involves surgically removing the tonsils. This procedure was very popular in the early 20th century, but with the advancement of medicine and the advent of new methods of treating tonsillitis, its use has become less common.
Although West's procedure was developed more than a century ago, it is still used in some cases, especially in developing countries where access to modern treatments is limited. However, modern methods of treating tonsillitis, such as tonsil lavage and antibiotics, are more effective and safer.