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Published on: January 28, 2020
Poorly Controlled Postoperative Pain Following Mandibular Third Molar Surgery: A Prospective Observational Study.
Warit Powcharoen1,2, Tanyong Pipanmekaporn3,4, Areerat Nirunsittirat5
1Graduate School, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
European Journal of Dentistry
|June 17, 2026
Summary
Poorly controlled postoperative pain (PPP) affects 15.31% of patients after mandibular third molar (MTM) surgery. Longer operative times are a key predictor, highlighting the need for tailored pain management strategies for MTM procedures.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Pain Management
- Postoperative Care
Background:
- Postoperative pain following mandibular third molar (MTM) surgery is a significant clinical issue.
- Poorly controlled postoperative pain (PPP) presents a persistent challenge for patients and clinicians.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of PPP within one week after MTM surgery.
- To identify prognostic factors associated with the development of PPP.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study involving 307 MTM surgeries.
- Pain intensity, descriptors, locations, and analgesic use were recorded over 7 days.
- Multivariable generalized linear models identified independent predictors of PPP.
Main Results:
- The cumulative incidence of PPP was 15.31%.
- Operative time exceeding 60 minutes was a significant predictor (aOR=3.95).
- Pain peaked at 6 hours, with limited resolution within 1 week for many patients.
Conclusions:
- PPP is prevalent after MTM surgery, necessitating targeted pain management.
- Prolonged operative duration is an independent prognostic factor for PPP.
- Early identification of high-risk patients is crucial for effective pain control.
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