DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjams.2026.v14i02.020

Pages: 259-263

Background: Postoperative pain, swelling, and trismus are common complications following oral surgical procedures and significantly affect patient comfort and functional recovery. The combined use of corticosteroids and long-acting local anesthetics has been proposed to improve postoperative outcomes, but evidence in oral surgery settings in Bangladesh remains limited. Aim of the study: To evaluate the efficacy of postoperative administration of dexamethasone and bupivacaine in reducing pain, swelling, trismus, and postoperative complications following oral surgical procedures. Methods: This prospective comparative study was conducted at the Dental Unit, Khwaja Yunus Ali Medical College and Hospital from 18th January, 2024 to 18th July 2024. Sixty patients undergoing oral surgery were enrolled and allocated into a treatment group (n=30) receiving local dexamethasone (5 mg) and bupivacaine (0.5%) postoperatively, and a control group (n=30) receiving standard postoperative care. Pain (Visual Analog Scale), swelling (facial measurements), and trismus (maximum interincisal opening) were assessed at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively. Postoperative complications were also recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 24, with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: The demographic and surgical characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Pain scores were significantly lower in the treatment group at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours compared to controls (p<0.001). Postoperative swelling at 24 and 48 hours was also significantly reduced in the treatment group (p<0.001). Trismus was significantly less in the treatment group, with greater mouth opening observed at both 24 and 48 hours (p<0.001). Minor postoperative complications were infrequent and comparable between groups, with no significant differences in infection, bleeding, or delayed wound healing. Conclusion: Postoperative administration of dexamethasone combined with bupivacaine significantl