Posttonsillectomy weight loss in adults

To analyze and determine the incidence and severity of weight loss in adult tonsillectomies.

Case series with chart review.

Adult tonsillectomy is performed for a variety of indications. Anecdotally, patients report a 10- to 15-pound weight loss in the postoperative period; however, no supporting research has been documented. The pediatric population has a well-documented weight gain postoperatively.

In total, 138 adults (aged 18-40 years) receiving tonsillectomy at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP) between 2008 and 2013.

A retrospective study was performed using an S3 surgery scheduling system search of all adult tonsillectomies at NMCP between 2008 and 2013. A subsequent electronic medical record search (AHLTA) of preoperative and postoperative weights and demographics was performed.

Data analysis revealed a significant difference found between preoperative and postoperative weight across all age groups (4.77 pounds, P < .005). Analysis of variance was performed to determine if there is a significant difference between these age and body mass index (BMI) groups. The highest amount of weight loss was observed in the oldest population group (5.72 pounds in subjects aged >40 years, 4.95 pounds in 31- to 40-year-olds, and 5.44 pounds in 20- to 30-year-olds, P = .03). Age comparisons were statistically significant. There was no statistically significant association between BMI and postoperative weight loss.

These results indicate that there is evidence of a roughly 5-pound weight loss in the postoperative period following tonsillectomy in adults with subsequent return to baseline weight after roughly 5 months. These findings are significant since this could lead to further research into changes in obesity-associated disease.