Effect of Dexamethasone on Postoperative Pain after Adult Tonsillectomy

Objective : To evaluate the effects of a single dose of intravenous dexamethasone on postoperative pain and complications after adult tonsillectomy. Methods : Fifty patients scheduled for elective tonsillectomy were recruited to this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Dexamethasone 20 mg intravenously was given after intubation in one group whereas the placebo group, saline solution was given. Pain score was assessed using verbal numerical pain scores (VNS). Side effects such as postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), active bleeding, otalgia, infection and secondary bleeding were also recorded. Results : The patients receiving dexamethasone had ower mean pain scores at 45 min and up to 36 hours postoperatively, however the only significant period was found at 4 hours postoperatively (P = 0.03). The dexamethasone group required less analgesics postoperatively. The incidence of side effects was lower in the dexamethasone group. Conclusion : Dexamethasone 20 mg given intravenously before tonsillectomy may reduce postoperative pain in adults without any significant side effects.