To Assess the Occurrence and Causes of Sore Throat after Supraglottic Airway Device Use: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Postoperative sore throat (POST) is one of the most common complaints of patients in the postoperative period who underwent general anesthesia (GA). It can be caused by both supra and infraglottic airway devices. While infraglottic airway devices are well known to be a major cause of POST, it can also be seen in supraglottic airway devices (SGADs). Aim: The aim is to observe for sore throat following insertion of SGAD. Study Design: The study design involves prospective observational study. Study Setting: Justice K. S. Hegde Charitable Hospital, NITTE (DU), Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka, India. Materials and Methods: Out of 105 patients who underwent GA with SGAD, incidence, and severity of POST were assessed at 1st h, 6th h, 12th h, 24th h, and 48th h postoperatively using the scoring system of Harding and McVey. Causes of POST were also determined in this study. The Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. Results: In this study, overall, 22.9% of POST was found in patients undergoing GA with SGAD, where the severity of POST was mild in 75% and moderate in 25%. Incidence and severity of POST both decreased with time postoperatively. Duration of SGAD in place and type of surgery were the two main causes associated with POST. Conclusion: There was a significant occurrence of POST following SGAD with mild-to-moderate severity. POST usually resolves by itself without the need for any treatment. Knowing the causes priorly may help us in being cautious about POST, and avoid patient discomfort postoperatively.