Changes in life quality following third molar surgery – the immediate postoperative period

Abstract

Objectives This study describes patients' perceptions of changes in oral health related quality of life (OHQOL) in the early postoperative period following third molar surgery. Methods One hundred patients were enrolled in a prospective cohort study of the surgical removal of lower third molars under local anaesthetic. Two specific oral health related quality of life measures, OHIP-14 and OHQoLUK© were administered to the study group prior to surgery. Standardized surgical and analgesic protocols were followed. Patients kept a diary of changes in life quality each postoperative day (POD) for 7 days, completing both OHIP-14 and OHQoLUK© daily. Results Both oral health related quality of life measures identified a significant deterioration in quality of life on POD1 (P<0.01) and this remained evident on POD2 (P<0.01), POD3 (P<0.01), POD4 (P<0.01) and POD5 (P<0.05). By POD6 and POD7 there was no significant difference in quality of life compared with preoperative status (P>0.05). Deterioration in life quality over the study period was associated with postoperative clinical findings (P<0.05): swelling and trismus. Conclusion The study concludes that there is a significant deterioration in oral health related quality of life in the immediate postoperative period following third molar surgery; particularly during the first five days. This is associated with postoperative clinical findings. This has implication for patients deciding on third molar surgery and informed consent.

Evaluation of Complications Following Impacted Mandibular Third Molar Extraction in Patients with Different Hand Preference

“…In our study, there was no statistically significant difference between groups when the levels of trismus at postoperative 2 and 7 days were compared. We observed that trismus was severe on day 2 in all groups and decreased on day 7, consistent with the results of other studies in the literature (17)(18)(19)(20)(21)(22). Similarly, no statistically significant difference was found between groups in edema at postoperative 2 and 7 days.…”

“…Trismus reaches its maximum level 2 days after extraction and may last for 7-10 days (21). It has been claimed that the duration and severity of this complication varies from patient to patient (17)(18)(19)(20)(21). In our study, there was no statistically significant difference between groups when the levels of trismus at postoperative 2 and 7 days were compared.…”

“…Pain, edema, and trismus after the extraction of impacted third molars are expected outcomes and these complications adversely affect the daily life of patients (17,18,19). Many studies have suggested that corticosteroids, different anesthetics, pain killers, and anti-inflammatory drugs may reduce the severity of these complications (20,21).…”

The selective and non-selective cyclooxygenase inhibitors valdecoxib and piroxicam induce the same postoperative analgesia and control of trismus and swelling after lower third molar removal

“…Frequently, this is a short-lasting and moderate pain, reaching its maximum intensity within a short period of time after the end of surgery, and, in most cases, patients require some kind of analgesic to treat it (1). Besides pain, swelling and mouth opening limitation associated with the inflammatory response are also undesirable consequences for patients who undergo surgical interventions in the oral cavity (2).…”

Measurement of generic compared with disease-specific quality of life after removal of mandibular third molars: a patient-centred evaluation

“…Surgeons in the UK every year (6). The surgical procedure causes acute pain, swelling and limited mouth opening.…”