Effect of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Mouthwash on Post-Tonsillectomy Pain: Randomized, Controlled Study

Abstract

Background and ObjectivesZZAltough tonsillectomy is one of the most common otolaryngological procedures, a highly reliable and effective method for reducing postoperative pain has yet to be identified. This study evaluated the efficacy of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) mouthwash on postoperative pain in tonsillectomy patients. Subjects and MethodZZA total of 64 patients who underwent tonsillectomy were randomly assigned to one of two groups (32 patients each). One group received the NSAID mouthwash and the other a distilled water mouthwash. Postoperative pain in the two groups was compared by assessing pain severity 1-9 days postoperatively using a visual analog scale. ResultsZZCompared to the distilled water mouthwash group, patients using the NSAID mouthwash showed a statistically significant decrease in postoperative pain over the first 9 postoperative days. ConclusionZZA NSAID mouthwash may be a simple and effective method for controlling posttonsillectomy pain when administered in conjunction with routine medications.