LAUSR

AIM The purpose of this randomized, single-blind trial was to evaluate the efficacy of battlefield acupuncture in reducing postoperative pain and opioid consumption after adult tonsillectomy. METHODS Adult participants undergoing a tonsillectomy were randomized to either receive auricular 'battlefield' acupuncture or not. Groups were compared using the Wilcox rank sum test, Fisher's exact test and a generalized estimating equations model for post-discharge pain scores. RESULTS Statistically significant difference was not noted for morphine equivalent opioid use, nor was there any difference noted in the pain scores between the control group and treatment group. CONCLUSION Acupuncture is cheap, safe and effective in many settings. Peri-operative battlefield auricular acupuncture did not reduce postoperative pain or opioid consumption in this study.