Reduced postoperative sore throat with combined budesonide and dexamethasone

Preoperative inhaled budesonide combined with intravenous dexamethasone significantly decreased postoperative sore throat (post) incidence and severity at 6, 12, and 24 hours in patients undergoing thyroidectomy. Additionally, this combination resulted in lower postoperative coughing rates at 24 hours compared to intravenous dexamethasone alone. Hoarseness outcomes were similar between the two groups. This combination therapy shows promise in reducing postoperative discomfort in these patients.