Body mass index and parotidectomy outcomes

Multiple specialties have demonstrated increased risk of certain postoperative complications in patients with an increased body mass index (BMI). The goal of this study was to understand the outcomes of patients undergoing parotidectomy with an increased BMI and to identify any other patient risk factors for postoperative complications. This study was a retrospective chart review of 432 patients. Patient variables collected included BMI, age, gender, history of diabetes mellitus, type of parotidectomy, and pathology. Outcomes reviewed included facial nerve weakness, hematoma or seroma formation, and wound infection. The results showed that BMI had no statistically significant effect on complications. However, patients undergoing a total parotidectomy, malignant pathology, and patients with a history of diabetes mellitus had significantly more postoperative facial weakness. In conclusion, BMI does not influence postoperative complications in patients undergoing parotidectomy. Patients with diabetes, those undergoing total parotidectomies, and patients with malignant pathology have significantly more facial weakness and should be counseled accordingly.