A Survey of the Use of Perioperative Glucocorticoids in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Purpose The aim of the study was to clarify the use of perioperative glucocorticoids (GCs) in association with oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures. Materials and Methods We conducted a survey of consultant oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) working in tertiary and secondary referral hospitals in Finland. Results The administration of GCs is common among OMSs (85.2% of respondents), especially in association with orthognathic surgery (100% of respondents) and facial fractures (43.5%). All OMSs who administered GCs reported that they reduce swelling. The next most common reasons for administering GCs were established practice (43.5%) and pain reduction (39.1%). The regimens differed widely from a 5-mg single dose to a 116-mg total dose of dexamethasone equivalent. Conclusions GCs are widely administered by OMSs, especially in major surgery. The literature shows some benefits of their use in dental and orthognathic operations, and their use seems rather safe. Proof of efficacy remains to be determined for other major maxillofacial surgical procedures; thus further studies are needed.