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Journal of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery
Published in:

17-06-2024 | Metronidazole | REVIEW PAPER

Metronidazole for the Prophylaxis of Alveolar Osteitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Authors: Ria Raghavan, Sonal Shah, Bhimappa Rudagi, Smriti Ticku, Sakshi Gaikwad, Digvijay Shitole

Published in: Journal of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery | Issue 1/2025

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Abstract

Aim

To assess, compare and evaluate the better effectiveness of metronidazole compared to conventional therapy for dry socket through a meta-analysis.

Methods

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were used and registered in PROSPERO-CRD42023440597. Electronic databases were searched until April 2023 for studies evaluating the effectiveness of metronidazole compared to placebo and other conventional therapy and evaluating outcome in terms of reduction of incidence of dry socket, swelling and impact on healing. Quality assessment was evaluated using Cochrane risk of bias (ROB)-2 tool for randomized controlled trials (RCT) through its domains using RevMan software version 5.3. The risk ratio (RR) was used as summary statistic measure with random effect model (p < 0.05).

Results

Twelve studies were included in review and eleven studies for meta-analysis. Quality assessment revealed a moderate to low ROB. It was observed that pooled estimate favoured metronidazole in reducing dry socket incidence—RR − 0.57 (95% CI − 0.24–1.33), reduction in swelling with RR − 0.62 (95% CI 0.12–3.25) and a greater impact on healing with RR − 0.25 (95% CI 0.12–0.52) were seen. Metronidazole was found to be superior compared to the placebo or conventional therapy. Funnel plot did reveal the presence of heterogeneity indicating the presence of publication bias.

Clinical significance

Since, dry socket is the most common complication following third molar surgery, it is important for a clinician to take adequate precautions and consider regimes that can aid in reducing this incidence.
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Metadata
Title
Metronidazole for the Prophylaxis of Alveolar Osteitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors
Ria Raghavan
Sonal Shah
Bhimappa Rudagi
Smriti Ticku
Sakshi Gaikwad
Digvijay Shitole
Publication date
17-06-2024
Publisher
Springer India
Published in
Journal of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery / Issue 1/2025
Print ISSN: 0972-8279
Electronic ISSN: 0974-942X
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12663-024-02243-z

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