Comparison of Analgesic Efficacy of Ketoprofen Delivered Through Transdermal and Oral Route in Post Operative Pain Management Following Periodontal Flap Surgery

Abstract

Introduction

Postoperative pain following periodontal flap surgery can adversely affect patient comfort and compliance. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed for pain control; however, oral administration may be associated with systemic adverse effects. Transdermal drug delivery systems offer a potential alternative with sustained release and improved tolerability. Hence the aim of the present study was to evaluate and compare the analgesic efficacy of oral and transdermal ketoprofen in the management of postoperative pain following periodontal flap surgery.

Materials and Methods

Ten systemically healthy patients diagnosed with chronic periodontitis requiring periodontal flap surgery in at least two quadrants were enrolled in this split-mouth pilot study. Following flap surgery in one quadrant, patients received oral ketoprofen (50 mg twice daily for three days). During surgery in the contralateral quadrant, patients received a transdermal ketoprofen patch (20 mg once daily for three days). Postoperative pain was assessed using a Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) at 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours. Wound healing was evaluated at 15 days.

Results

Intergroup comparison showed no statistically significant difference in pain scores between oral and transdermal ketoprofen at any postoperative time point (p > 0.05). Intragroup analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in pain scores over time in both groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Transdermal ketoprofen demonstrated analgesic efficacy comparable to oral ketoprofen following periodontal flap surgery and may serve as a viable alternative for postoperative pain management.