Topical sucralfate for pain after oral CO2 laser surgery: a prospective, randomized, controlled trial

PurposeThe aim of this study was to assess the effect of topical sucralfate on postoperative pain scores and other secondary outcomes including the frequency and duration of analgesic use and postoperative bleeding episodes after CO2 laser treatment of oral leukoplakia.Patients and MethodsIn this prospective trial, a total of 80 patients were randomized into the sucralfate group (n = 40) or the control group (n = 40). Postoperative pain scores, the frequency and duration of analgesic requirements, and postoperative wound bleeding episodes were compared between the 2 groups from the operative day to postoperative day 6.ResultsPatients in the sucralfate group experienced significantly less postoperative pain on postoperative days 1 and 2. Although there was no significant difference in frequency and duration of analgesic use between the 2 groups, a trend toward lower frequency and fewer days of analgesic use in the sucralfate group was observed.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated the efficacy of topical sucralfate application in diminishing postoperative pain after CO2 laser therapy for oral leukoplakia. Topical sucralfate can be considered a feasible adjuvant medication for the control of pain after CO2 laser treatment of oral leukoplakia.