Jordan Valley Medical Center Physician Removes Record-breaking Tonsils from Utah Patient

West Valley — Dr. Ryan Gilbert, ENT, physician from Jordan Valley Medical Center, presents the Guinness Book of World Records title for Largest Tonsils to 28-year-old Patrick Kelleher of West Jordan. 

Gilbert surgically removed Kelleher’s tonsils on May 9, 2014 after recurrent episodes of tonsillitis and a trip to the emergency department. Kelleher’s condition was not improving, pushing Gilbert to remove both tonsils at Jordan Valley Medical Center.

“My condition made it difficult for me to swallow and breathe, and I knew there was something wrong,” Kelleher said. “After the surgical procedure, I had no idea my tonsils were considered the largest removed at Jordan Valley Medical Center. It wasn’t until Dr. Gilbert approached me with the idea to apply for the Guinness Book of World Records that I fully understood how unique my situation is.”

Kelleher’s left tonsil measured 6.0 cm (2.4 in) long, 3.5 cm (1.4 in) wide, and 3.0 cm (1.2 in) thick, and the right tonsil measured 5.0 cm (2.0 in) long, 3.6 cm (1.4 in) wide, and 2.6 cm (1.0 in) thick. His left tonsil weighed 28 grams and the right weighted 25 grams.

“Patrick was referred to me after his trip to the ER. The inflammation inside his throat reached critical levels, which affected his breathing and ability to properly swallow,” Gilbert said. “The inflammation probably wasn’t going down on its own, so I knew surgery was a good treatment option for Patrick. Once the tonsils were removed and our team measured and weighed them, I knew they had to be record breaking. With Patrick’s permission, I sent in his Guinness Book of World Records application form and received an official letter awarding him the title. It was an exciting and happy moment for Patrick and our team. We were able to turn a scary situation into a positive outcome.”

Gilbert is a board-certified otolaryngologist and a fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, American Academy of Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery, and the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy. He has been affiliated with Jordan Valley Medical Center for six years.

About Jordan Valley Medical Center

Jordan Valley Medical Center is a 183-bed, state-of-the-art hospital located in West Jordan. Jordan Valley Medical Center is equipped with the most advanced medical technology and offers comprehensive health care services, including emergency care, cardiac care, orthopedic care, advanced surgical procedures, diagnostic imaging, maternity care, sports medicine, and help for a broad range of medical conditions. 

With an experienced medical staff of more than 600 and a dedicated health care team, Jordan Valley Medical Center is committed to providing high-quality care in a friendly hospital environment. 

Jordan Valley Medical Center is directly or indirectly owned by an entity that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff. 

For more information, visit jordanvalleymc.com or call 1-866-431-WELL (9355). Follow Jordan Valley Medical Center on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/jordanvalleymedicalcenter.