Orbitozygomatic complex fracture reduction under local anesthesia and light oral sedation.

PURPOSE: Closed hook reduction is a well-accepted approach in reducing selected cases of isolated orbitozygomatic complex fractures. The potential of achieving such reductions under light sedation and local anesthesia has many potential benefits over general anesthesia and should therefore not be overlooked. The goal of this study was to verify if closed reduction under local anesthesia is a feasible alternative to reduction under general anesthesia for selected cases of orbitozygomatic complex fractures. Furthermore, an attempt was made at identifying those who would benefit from such an option without compromising end results as opposed to those who would require open reduction with the use of internal fixation devices (ORIF) to ensure favorable outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Over the period of July to October 2005, we attempted to reduce 8 consecutive orbitozygomatic complex fractures on an outpatient basis with the use of local anesthesia. RESULTS: We have successfully reduced 6 of 8 such fractures. CONCLUSION: Closed hook reduction under light sedation and local anesthesia is a feasible and safe procedure in selected cases of noncomminuted zygomatic fractures. Coupling both physical examination and immediate postoperative radiographic evaluation ensures substantiation of accurate reduction and permits immediate final corrections if considered necessary.

Hydrogen peroxide mouth rinse: an analgesic post-tonsillectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the analgesic efficacy of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) mouth rinse with control for post-tonsillectomy pain management. DESIGN: Double-blinded, prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty-seven patients from 5 to 14 years old undergoing electrocautery tonsillectomy were randomized to either the H2O2 mouth rinse or the water rinse (control) group. For 14 days, patients recorded pain levels twice daily using a visual analogue scale. Analgesic uses, as well as any complications, were also noted by the patients. RESULTS: Thirty-seven patients completed the study, 21 in the treatment group and 16 in the control group. Mean postoperative days of pain were 10.3 and 8.3, respectively, and differed significantly (p = .008). Mean postoperative days of analgesic use were 9.0 and 6.7, respectively, and differed significantly (p = .005). Only one incidence of postoperative hemorrhage occurred in the study group. CONCLUSION: In our study, the H2O2 mouth rinse does not provide a better analgesic effect than the water rinse for post-tonsillectomy pain relief.