Comparison of the Effects of Topical Ketamine and Tramadol on Postoperative Pain After Mandibular Molar Extraction

PurposeThis study compared the analgesic efficacy of postoperative tramadol versus ketamine for preventing pain after mandibular molar extraction.Patients and MethodsNinety patients who had undergone molar extraction were randomly divided into 3 groups: group T (tramadol 1 mg/kg), group K (ketamine 0.5 mg/kg), and group P (saline 2 mL). The treatment was applied to the extraction sockets using resorbable gelatin sponges. Pain after extraction was evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS) 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively.ResultsThe VAS scores after extraction were statistically higher in group P than in either treatment group. Group K had the lowest pain intensity.ConclusionThis study shows that topical tramadol and ketamine are effective alternatives for decreasing pain after molar extractions.