A prospective study to compare the effects of pre, intra and post operative steroid (dexamethasone sodium phosphate) on post tonsillectomy morbidity

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of dexamethasone on post tonsillectomy morbidities in patients with chronic tonsillitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this randomized double-blind study, 100 patients who underwent tonsillectomy were enrolled and were randomly allocated into control or dexamethasone group (pre operative, intra operative and post operative groups). Patients were assessed for pain nausea, vomiting and oral intake in the post operative period at 24 h. RESULTS: Patients treated with dexamethasone particularly in the pre and intra operative groups (Group B, Group C) showed a general trend towards lower pain score than post operative group (Group D). The scores were about 1.72±0.84 and 2.20±1.19 in Groups B and C respectively, and 2.64±0.99 in Group D. Overall pain score was found to be more in the control Group A about 4.84±1.21 at 6 h post operatively and showed similar trend for next 24 h. Total number of patients with nausea was significantly high about 84% in control group compared to dexamethasone groups (Group B, C and D) about 20%, 8% and 24% respectively and also incidence of vomiting episodes showed a similar trend. Oral intake was significantly delayed in control group (6.16 ±1.52), P < 0.001 than dexamethasone group. Pre operative and intra operative groups showed early intake (3.68±0.68) and (3.60±1.12) respectively than the postoperative group (5.08±0.95). CONCLUSIONS: A single intravenous dose of dexamethasone, given following induction of anaesthesia and at the time of surgery, provided prolonged analgesia, reduced nausea and vomiting and resulted in earlier oral intake.