“Gender Differences in the Prophylactic Efficacy of Inhaled Budesonide on Postoperative Airway Symptoms”

Abstract

Postoperative airway symptoms —including sore throat (POST), cough, and hoarseness—are common following endotracheal intubation under general anesthesia. Prophylactic inhaled budesonide may reduce these complications. Aim: To evaluate gender influence on the efficacy of prophylactic inhaled budesonide in reducing postoperative airway symptoms.

Methods: 82 patients aged 20–60 years undergoing elective surgeries under general anesthesia were distributed into experimental (200 µg inhaled budesonide, n=41; 31 males, 10 females) and non-experimental (placebo, n=41; 29 males, 12 females) groups. Postoperative sore throat, cough, and hoarseness were assessed at 2 and 24 hours. Data were analyzed using Chi-square tests, odds ratios, and Z-tests.Results: Budesonide significantly reduced postoperative sore throat (POST), cough, and hoarseness in both genders at 2 and 24 hours. Gender-wise analysis showed no statistically significant differences within the experimental group. Odds ratio analysis confirmed significant symptom reduction compared to placebo.Conclusion: Prophylactic inhaled budesonide effectively reduces postoperative airway symptoms irrespective of gender.