Mandibular impacted third molar Surgery and Drains: a review of the literature.

Abstract

Pain, swelling and trismus are the most common causes of discomfort and postoperative morbidity after the surgical removal of impacted lower third molars under local anesthesia. A review of literature shows that the existence of these postoperative variables after the surgical removal of impacted lower third molar are well known and could lead to a reduction in the postoperative quality of life of patients. Reducing or minimizing these postoperative variables seems a laudable goal especially if wound healing is not compromised. Several studies carried out have not pointed on any systemic or local agent used without any adverse effect. Oral surgeons have used drains after the surgical removal of mandibular impacted third molars to minimize postoperative morbidity with varying degrees of success. The use of a drain in association with primary suture after the surgical removal of the impacted lower third molars allows the patient to experience a more comfortable postoperative period in relation to pain, swelling and trismus, because it permits the drainage of fluids located in the tissue spaces. The purpose of this study is to review the effects of drains after the surgical removal of impacted lower third molar so that oral surgeons carrying out lower third molar extraction may be properly informed to consider the use of drains to minimize the postoperative discomfort.

Keywords: third molar surgery-morbidity-use of drain

Journal of College of Medicine Vol. 12 (2) 2007: pp. 80-84