[Meteorological observations concerning haemorrhages after tonsillectomy (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Environmental Medicine
• Meteorology

Background:

• Postoperative hemorrhage following tonsillectomy is a significant concern.
• The etiology of a substantial percentage of these hemorrhages remains medically unexplained.
• Previous research has suggested potential links between weather changes and postoperative bleeding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between meteorological conditions and the occurrence of postoperative hemorrhages after tonsillectomy.
• To determine if specific weather patterns correlate with an increased risk of bleeding.

Main Methods:

• Observation of 929 patients undergoing tonsillectomy over a twelve-month period.
• Correlation of the timing of postoperative hemorrhages with concurrent meteorological data, specifically weather changes.
• Comparison of findings with existing literature on weather influences and surgical bleeding.

Main Results:

• The majority of postoperative hemorrhages occurred at the onset of improving weather conditions (clearing from the west).
• Hemorrhages were less frequent during 'Föhn' periods (warm southerly winds).
• These findings contrast with some previous studies linking hemorrhages to the onset of bad weather.

Conclusions:

• Meteorological influences appear to play a role in the incidence of postoperative hemorrhages after tonsillectomy.
• The observed correlation may explain up to 40% of previously unexplained bleeding events.
• It is recommended that meteorological information regarding weather phases be communicated to healthcare providers and hospitals.