Post-operative Sequelae Following Surgical Removal of Mandibular Third Molars with and Without the Use of a Tube Drain - A Comparative Study

Abstract Introduction: The most commonly performed oral surgical procedure involves the surgical extraction of an impacted mandibular third molar. Subsequently, documented evidence indicates the presence of associated sequelae, including diminished mouth opening, swelling and postoperative discomfort. This study aimed to objectively assess the levels of pain, swelling and trismus following surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars, comparing cases with and without the use of an intraoral tube drain. Materials and Methods: Fifty patients with bilateral impacted mandibular third molars in both sides of the jaw were enrolled in this study. A modified infant feeding tube was inserted, measuring 2–3 cm in length, with custom slots into the experimental side. Patients were scheduled for follow-up 2 days, 4 days and 8 days after surgery to assess pain, facial swelling and trismus. The drain was removed during the first follow-up visit, and sutures were removed 8 days after surgery. Results: Our study findings clearly highlight the advantages of utilising a tube drain following the extraction of an impacted mandibular third molar, particularly in reducing post-operative facial swelling and trismus. Data reveal a notable decrease in postoperative pain when a tube drain is employed compared to the group that did not use tube drains post-extraction. Discussion: Use of drainage tubes has been shown to enhance postoperative pain relief, reduce facial swelling and alleviate trismus immediately after surgery. Moreover, surgical drains have demonstrated excellent patient compliance and safety, underscoring their importance in standard treatment protocol for patients undergoing surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars.