Efficacy of Nebulized Ketamine versus Ketamine-Clonidine in Reducing Post-Operative Sore Throat: A Randomized Controlled Trial

A combination of nebulized ketamine and clonidine before general anesthesia reduces the incidence and severity of postoperative sore throat more effectively than ketamine alone or saline. In a randomized trial of 120 patients, sore throat occurred in 12.5% of those receiving the combination at 24 hours after surgery, compared to 47.5% with ketamine alone and 67.5% with saline. The combination also lessened the severity of sore throat. These results indicate that adding clonidine to ketamine nebulization is a valuable option for improving patient comfort after general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Background: Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a common complication after general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation.Various pharmacological interventions, including ketamine nebulization, have been studied for their effectiveness in reducing the incidence of POST.Aim: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of nebulized ketamine alone versus a ketamine-clonidine combination in preventing postoperative sore throat.Methods: A total of 120 patients undergoing elective surgeries under general anesthesia were randomly assigned to three groups: Group S (saline nebulization, 4 mL), Group K (ketamine nebulization, 50 mg in 4 mL saline), and Group KC (ketamine 50 mg + clonidine 50 g in 4 mL saline).The incidence and severity of sore throat were assessed at 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours post-extubation.Results: The incidence of POST was significantly lower in Group KC compared to Group K and Group S at all-time intervals.At 24 hours, POST incidence was 12.5% in Group KC, 47.5% in Group K, and 67.5% in Group S. The severity of sore throat was also reduced in the KC group.Conclusion: Nebulization with a combination of ketamine and clonidine significantly reduces the incidence and severity of postoperative sore throat compared to ketamine alone or saline.This combination therapy could be a valuable option for improving postoperative comfort in patients undergoing general anesthesia.