Page 100 - Demo

Chapter 598Chlorhexidine (CHX) has an antimicrobial effect that can last up to 24 hours. Several studies have evaluated the effect of a CHX rinse on the incidence of AO [12–13]. Rinsing preoperatively and up to seven days postoperatively with CHX 0.12% significantly reduces the incidence of AO. On the other hand, a single preoperative rinse with CHX was not associated with a significant reduction in AO incidence [51]. Adverse side effects, such as tooth discoloration and alteration in taste, have been reported with prolonged use of CHX [52–53]; therefore, it is advised that CHX use should be limited to a short period. In our present study, the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) and AO was 0%. These results were positive compared to the prevalence rates reported in other studies,which vary between 1–30% and 3.9–29.6% respectively [54–55]. Despite much effort to objectify our present results, there are several limitations that must be considered when interpreting the results. All third molars removed in the present study were asymptomatic and without pathology; therefore, no statements can be made about the effectiveness of placing an iodine-containing tampon in the post-extraction socket in cases of active pathology. Additionally, this study only measured the effects of the iodine-containing tampon after surgical removal of the mandibular third molars; therefore, our results cannot be extrapolated to other extraction sites in the tooth arch. Another limitation is that there is a lack of data regarding the correct usage of the Monoject syringe by the patients. Failing to correctly rinse the post-operative extraction socket after surgery may lead to food impaction, infection, and delayed healing time. Ghaeminia et al. reported that 42% of the patients were unable to irrigate the post-operative extraction socket, despite having received instructions [18]. This issue may have resulted in more postoperative sequelae for the control group, and thus adversely affected patients’ QoL. Finally, the data regarding the postoperative days were filled in by the patients themselves. Although self-assessment or self-reporting is a preferred method for data acquisition, the data are subjective, and the assessment of self-reported data is not immune to potential bias [56]. A recall on postoperative day three or four would have been helpful for objective assessment of the clinical parameters.