Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background: Surgical removal of third molars is a routinely performed procedure. It involves removal of hard and soft tissues leading to pain, swelling and trismus. Corticosteroids are given to reduce these post operative sequels. In this prospective study, we evaluate the effectiveness of 4mg dexamethasone given intraoperatively by either sub mucosal or intramuscular route. We study its effects on postoperative pain, trismus and swelling. Materials and Methods: A total of 38 patients were involved in this study which were divided in two groups – Group I receiving 4mg of submucosal  dexamethasone and Group II receiving 4 mg of intravenous dexamethasone intraoperatively during the removal of third molars. Swelling, trismus and pain scores were noted in both the groups during 2nd and 7th postoperative days. SPSS software was used for analysis and Chi square test was applied as a test of significance. Result: There was no significant difference in the demographic data and duration of surgery amongst the groups. Pain scores were significantly lower in Group II during 2nd postoperative day. There was a significant difference in facial swelling during both 2nd and 7th postoperative days. Trismus index showed no significant difference between the groups. Conclusion: Injection of intravenous dexamethasone provided a significant reduction in pain and swelling scores without significant reduction in trismus index.
Keywords: Corticosteroids, Dexamethasone, Intravenous, Submucosal, Trismus