Effect of Kinesio Tape Versus Systemic Dexamethasone on Postsurgical Sequels Following Extraction of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars

The extraction of impacted mandibular third molars is one of the most common procedures performed in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Despite being a routine intervention, it is frequently associated with significant postoperative complications, including pain, edema, and trismus, all of which negatively impact patient recovery and quality of life. These sequelae result from the inflammatory response induced by surgical trauma, leading to increased vascular permeability, extracellular fluid accumulation, and the release of inflammatory mediators. Given these concerns, optimizing postoperative management strategies is critical to improving patient outcomes and enhancing recovery. Traditional pharmacological interventions, particularly dexamethasone, have been widely employed due to their potent anti-inflammatory effects. However, concerns regarding systemic side effects, contraindications, and long-term implications have led to increasing interest in non-pharmacological alternatives such as Kinesio Tape (KT).

The physiological response following third molar extraction is driven by a complex interplay of cellular and molecular mechanisms aimed at tissue healing and immune regulation. Surgical trauma triggers the activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1 beta, and interleukin-6, which contribute to increased vascular permeability, edema formation, and nociceptor sensitization. This inflammatory cascade ultimately results in pain, swelling, and limited mouth opening due to spasm and fibrosis of the masticatory muscles, particularly the masseter and pterygoid muscles. The peak of these complications typically occurs within 48 hours postoperatively and, if not adequately managed, may lead to prolonged recovery, reduced oral function, and impaired patient satisfaction.

Dexamethasone is a long-acting glucocorticoid that exerts its effects by inhibiting the transcription of pro-inflammatory genes, thereby reducing cytokine release, stabilizing cell membranes, and preventing fluid extravasation into surrounding tissues. Evidence has shown that a single preoperative dose of dexamethasone administered via submucosal or intramuscular injection can effectively reduce postoperative swelling, trismus, and pain intensity, making it a widely adopted intervention in oral surgery. Nevertheless, despite its efficacy, systemic corticosteroids are associated with potential risks, including immunosuppression, delayed wound healing, alterations in glucose metabolism, and adrenal suppression with prolonged use. These concerns have necessitated the exploration of alternative strategies capable of achieving comparable anti-inflammatory effects without systemic exposure.

Kinesio Tape has gained increasing attention in rehabilitation medicine and sports therapy, with growing interest in its role in postoperative recovery. Designed to lift the skin, decompress underlying tissues, and enhance lymphatic drainage, KT has been proposed as an effective method for reducing edema, improving blood circulation, and modulating neuromuscular function. Unlike corticosteroids, which act at the molecular level to suppress inflammation, KT exerts its effects mechanically by redistributing interstitial pressure, facilitating fluid dynamics, and promoting natural healing mechanisms.

Clinical investigations have assessed the efficacy of KT in reducing postoperative complications following third molar extraction. Application of KT has been associated with reductions in swelling, pain intensity, and trismus during the early postoperative period, suggesting a sustained benefit in controlling tissue inflammation. Moreover, KT does not induce systemic effects, making it an attractive option for patients with contraindications to corticosteroid therapy.