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Immediate postoperative fluid retention and weight gain after shoulder arthroscopy
Ian K Y Lo1, Stephen S Burkhart
1The San Antonio Orthopaedic Group, San Antonio, Texas, USA.
Summary
Patients commonly experience weight gain after shoulder arthroscopy due to fluid retention. This study found significant weight gain, averaging 8.7 lb, linked to surgical factors but without complications.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Surgical Outcomes
- Patient Monitoring
Background:
- Shoulder arthroscopy involves fluid distension and irrigation.
- Postoperative weight changes are not routinely monitored.
- Understanding fluid shifts is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify immediate postoperative weight gain following shoulder arthroscopy.
- To identify patient and surgical factors associated with this weight gain.
- To assess the clinical significance of this weight gain.
Main Methods:
- Observational case series of 53 patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopy.
- Pre- and post-operative weights measured, adjusted for dressings/slings.
- Statistical analysis (Pearson correlation, t-tests, regression) used to correlate weight gain with surgical variables.
Main Results:
- Mean net weight gain was 8.7 lb (4.6% of body weight).
- Arthroscopy fluid contributed a mean of 4.2 lb (2.2% of body weight).
- Weight gain correlated with surgical time, fluid volume, tear size, and number of anchors used.
Conclusions:
- Immediate postoperative weight gain is a common occurrence after shoulder arthroscopy.
- While no complications were observed in this cohort, awareness is advised.
- Patients and surgeons should be cognizant of potential implications of this fluid retention.