[Topical methylprednisolone vs lidocaïne for the prevention of postoperative sore throat].

OBJECTIVE: We assessed the efficacy of topical methylprednisolone or lidocaine for prevention of postoperative sore throat.

STUDY DESIGN: Randomised, prospective in single blind study.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixty patients ASA 1 or 2 undergoing tracheal intubation for dental surgery received before intubation either topical lidocaine 5% (15 puffs) or aerosolized methylprednisolone (80 mg). Postoperative pain was assessed by the patients using a VAS and a specific scoring system for sore throat, cough and hoarseness. Evaluations were performed immediately after emergence from anaesthesia, 1 h later, at time of the first postoperative drink, at time of the first postoperative meal and 24 h after surgery.

RESULTS: Patients receiving methylprednisolone showed slightly better scores for sore throat and cough 1 h after surgery.

CONCLUSION: Topical methylprednisolone may therefore be a useful adjuvant in the prevention of sore throat after intubation.