Efficacy of Submucosal Hydrocortisone Injection Versus Normal Saline in Third Molar Surgery

Background: It is well recognized that corticosteroids lessen edema, fluid transudation, and inflammation. These substances, which are released by the adrenal glands, are important for sustaining metabolism. Their anti-inflammatory properties are among their most important functions. Methodology: A double-blind, randomized, controlled study. Twenty patients requiring surgical removal impacted third molar participated in the trial. The patients were split into two groups of 10 at random: Group I received a submucosal injection of hydrocortisone, and following the establishment of local anesthetic, Group II (the placebo group) was given a submucosal injection of normal saline. Postoperative sequelae were assessed on the second and seventh days after surgery. Result: Submucosal administration of hydrocortisone significantly reduced postoperative pain, facial swelling, and trismus compared with placebo (P < 0.05), while postoperative analgesic consumption and wound healing showed no significant differences between the groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: A single submucosal injection of hydrocortisone may represen a safe and effective adjunct for reducing postoperative inflammatory sequelae after impacted mandibular third molar surgery. It significantly improves postoperative recovery without adversely affecting wound healing.