Efficacy of Fentanyl Transdermal Patch in Impacted Mandibular Third Molar Surgery-A Comparative Study

Area of Science:

• Oral Surgery
• Pain Management
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Surgical removal of mandibular third molars frequently causes significant post-operative pain, swelling, and trismus.
• Effective management of moderate to severe acute post-operative pain remains a challenge despite advancements in pain control.
• Fentanyl, a potent opioid, is known for its efficacy in managing severe pain, including post-operative pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Fentanyl Transdermal System (FTS) for managing post-operative pain.
• To assess pain intensity, pain-free intervals, and analgesic consumption after impacted mandibular third molar surgery.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 20 patients aged 18-40 undergoing impacted mandibular third molar surgery under local anesthesia.
• Patients were divided into two groups: Group A received a 50 μg FTS patch, and Group B received a placebo patch.
• Pain was assessed using Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Verbal Rating Scale (VRS), with rescue analgesic use monitored.

Main Results:

• Group A (FTS) demonstrated significantly lower mean pain intensity scores compared to Group B (placebo).
• Patients in Group A required significantly fewer post-operative rescue analgesics.
• FTS application led to improved pain relief and longer pain-free intervals.

Conclusions:

• Fentanyl Transdermal System (FTS) is an effective option for managing post-operative pain following impacted mandibular third molar extraction.
• FTS provides superior pain relief, extends pain-free periods, and reduces the need for additional pain medication.
• The study highlights the potential of FTS in improving patient outcomes after oral surgery.