Evaluation of effect of submucosal administration of depomedrol in management of postoperative sequelae in mandibular fractures: A randomized clinical trial study

INTRODUCTION: The mandible is a commonly fractured bone in the face, a fact related to its prominent and exposed position. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of mandibular fractures has been associated with trauma to the surgical site and the surrounding tissues. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of immediate postoperative submucosal depomedrol administration on postoperative pain, edema, and trismus after ORIF for mandibular fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blind study of forty patients who required ORIF for mandibular fractures under general anesthesia. The patients were divided into two groups, an experimental group who received immediate postoperative submucosal 40 mg of depomedrol injection through the surgical incision site, and a control group who did not receive any drug. Pain was assessed using a Visual Analog Scale score and the frequency of analgesic consumption at various postoperative intervals. The maximum interincisal distance and facial measurements were compared before surgery and at 24, 48, 72 h, and 7 days after surgery. RESULTS: Statistical analysis of the data indicated a significant decrease in edema, trismus, and pain in the depomedrol group. No clinically apparent infection, disturbance of wound healing, or other corticosteroid-related complications were noted. CONCLUSION: The results of our study suggest that submucosal administration of depomedrol injection after ORIF for mandibular fractures is effective in reducing postoperative pain, edema, and trismus.