Comparing intracuff alkalinised lignocaine and normal saline for reducing postoperative sore throat: A prospective, double-blinded, randomised trial

Comparing intracuff alkalinised lignocaine and normal saline for reducing postoperative sore throat: A prospective, double-blinded, randomised trial - Background and Objective: Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a frequent and distressing complication of endotracheal intubation, impacting patient comfort and recovery. Alkalinised lignocaine, by diffusing through the cuff and exerting a topical anaesthetic effect on the tracheal mucosa, may help mitigate POST. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of intracuff alkalinised lignocaine with normal saline (NS) in reducing POST in adult patients undergoing elective surgery under general anaesthesia (GA). Materials and Methods: This prospective, randomised, double-blinded, comparative study included 120 adult patients undergoing elective surgery under GA. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 60 each): Group A received 6 mL of 2% alkalinised lignocaine for ETT cuff inflation, while Group B received 6 mL of NS. POST was assessed at 0, 2, 12, and 24 hours using a four-point scale. Statistical analyses were performed to compare outcomes between groups. Results: Postoperative sore throat (POST) scores were significantly lower in Group A at 2 hours (1.72 ± 0.45 vs. 1.90 ± 0.48, p = 0.033), 12 hours (0.90 ± 0.40 vs. 1.65 ± 0.52, p < 0 xss=removed> Conclusion: Intracuff alkalinised lignocaine significantly reduces the incidence and severity of POST compared to Normal Saline in patients undergoing elective surgery under GA. Keywords: Postoperative sore throat, Intracuff alkalinised lignocaine, Cuffed endotracheal tube.