Nebulized magnesium versus ketamine for prevention of postoperative sore throat in patients for general anaesthesia

Abstract

Background: Sore throat is a common post-operative complaint which can cause significant distress and morbidity. We tested and compared the efficacy of nebulized Magnesium and Ketamine on the incidence and severity of sore throat within the first 24 hours after general anaesthesia.
Objective: To compare the incidence and severity of post-operative sore throat at 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 hours after extubation following pre-induction administration of nebulized Magnesium and Ketamine.
Method: In this randomized controlled trial, 99 adult ASA I and II patients between the ages of 16 – 65 years were administered  nebulized Ketamine 50 mg, Magnesium Sulphate 250 mg or saline for ten minutes prior to induction of general anaesthesia and orotracheal intubation. Incidence and severity of post-operative sore throat were assessed at 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 hours post extubation.
Result: The incidence of sore throat at 4, 8, 12 and 24 hours post tracheal extubation were significantly lower in the Magnesium  (18.2%, 12.1%, 0, 0; p = 0.009, 0.006, <0.0001, 0.003) and Ketamine group (24.2%, 12.1%, 6.1%, 0; p = 0.041, 0.006, 0.001, 0.003) compared with the saline group (48.5%, 42.4%, 39.4%, 24.2%). Patients also had significantly less severe sore throat at 4 and 8 hours post  extubation in both Magnesium and Ketamine groups (p = 0.0 11, 0.041).
Conclusion: Pre-induction nebulization of Ketamine or Magnesium can decrease the incidence and severity of sore throat in the first 24 hours after anaesthesia.

Keywords: Nebulize, Sore throat, Magnesium, Ketamine