Auricular Acupuncture for The Treatment of Post-Tonsillectomy Pain

Auricular Acupuncture for The Treatment of Post-Tonsillectomy Pain

The goal of this study is to assess the role of battlefield acupuncture in the reduction of pain scores status post adult tonsillectomy. Secondary goals of this study include reduction in narcotic usage, decreased nausea and vomiting, and evaluating patient factors that lend an increased risk of worsening pain or improved response with acupuncture.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Any adult patient who meets criteria and is scheduled for tonsillectomy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any patient with prior use of acupuncture
• Individuals under age 18
• Tonsillectomy performed with other surgical procedures, i.e UPPP, adenoidectomy,
• Patients with a known personal or family history of a bleeding disorder will be excluded.
• Patients with a history of kidney or liver problems will also be excluded.
• Patients found to be pregnant will be excluded from participation.
• Patients unwilling to enroll in the study will have the tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy performed according to current practice standards.