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Inhaled methoxyflurane (Penthrox) sedation for third molar extraction: a comparison to nitrous oxide sedation.
W A Abdullah1, S A Sheta, N S Nooh
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Dentistry, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. drwaleedsurgery@yahoo.com
Australian Dental Journal
|September 3, 2011
Summary
Methoxyflurane (Penthrox) offers comparable sedation to nitrous oxide for dental anxiety reduction during third molar removal. Patients preferred Penthrox, reporting minimal side effects and comparable sedation levels.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Sedation Techniques
- Dental Anesthesia
Background:
- Dental anxiety is a significant barrier to third molar removal.
- Nitrous oxide is a conventional sedation method for such procedures.
- Methoxyflurane (Penthrox) offers a potential alternative for managing dental anxiety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate inhaled methoxyflurane (Penthrox) for reducing dental anxiety.
- To compare Penthrox with nitrous oxide sedation for mandibular third molar extraction.
- To assess patient and surgeon satisfaction with both sedation methods.
Main Methods:
- Prospective randomized, non-blinded crossover study with 20 patients.
- Comparison of intermittent Penthrox inhaler vs. nitrous oxide sedation.
- Monitoring of vital signs, Ramsay Sedation Scale (RSS), patient cooperation, and side effects.
Main Results:
- Sedation levels were comparable between Penthrox and nitrous oxide.
- Patients preferred methoxyflurane (Penthrox) over nitrous oxide (p < 0.05).
- Adverse events were minimal, with dizziness being the most common side effect for both.
Conclusions:
- Inhaled methoxyflurane (Penthrox) provides comparable sedation to nitrous oxide for third molar extraction.
- Penthrox is a well-tolerated alternative for managing dental anxiety in surgical procedures.
- Patient preference favors methoxyflurane for its ease of use and perceived comfort.
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