A Study to Compare 2% Ligocaine Hydrochloride Intra Cuff and Lidocaine Hydrochloride 2% Jelly in Reducing Post-Operative Sore Throat, Hoarseness of Voice and Cough in General Anesthesia

Introduction: Tracheal intubation during general anesthesia (GA) often causes postoperative sore throat (POST), hoarseness, and coughing due to irritant stimuli. This study compared 2% lidocaine hydrochloride intracuff and jelly, aiming to reduce these complications. Intracuff lidocaine may anesthetize the tracheal mucosa, minimizing emergence coughing and improving postoperative outcomes, especially in critical surgical procedures. Methods: This prospective study at Government Medical College, Rajamahendravaram, compared 2% lidocaine intracuff with 2% jelly in reducing postoperative sore throat, coughing, and hoarseness. Conducted over four months, it included patients aged 18–60, excluding emergencies and complex cases. Outcomes were assessed and statistically analyzed using SPSS, with significance at P < 0.05. Results: Baseline characteristics, including age, gender, BMI, ASA grade, and surgery duration, were comparable between groups. Group A consistently showed lower postoperative sore throat scores and significantly fewer cases of severe coughing and hoarseness than group B. Intracuff lidocaine demonstrated superior efficacy in minimizing airway complications, enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction. Conclusion: Intracuff 2% lidocaine effectively reduces postoperative sore throat, coughing, and hoarseness compared to 2% lidocaine jelly. Its superior efficacy in minimizing airway complications improves patient outcomes and satisfaction, highlighting its potential as a preferred strategy for managing intubation-related postoperative discomfort in GA.