Does Kinesio taping and/or transdermal diclofenac patch reduce postoperative pain and swelling after open reduction and internal fixation of mandibular angle fractures?

PURPOSE: Postoperative pain and facial swelling are frequent complications following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of mandibular angle fractures, impacting recovery and early postoperative quality of life. This study assesses the effectiveness of Kinesio taping (KT) and transdermal diclofenac patches (TDP), both individually and in combination, in managing postoperative pain and swelling. By comparing these non-invasive interventions, we aim to determine their role in enhancing patient comfort and postoperative recovery.

METHODS: A triple-blind randomised controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary trauma centre in rural South India, enrolling 60 patients (18-55 years) with isolated unilateral mandibular angle fractures. Patients were randomly assigned to KT + TDP, KT alone, or TDP alone and Intramuscular Diclofenac (IM-control) groups. Primary outcomes measured were postoperative swelling (measured using a 5-linetechnique), pain (10-point Visual Analog Scale), and the amount of rescue analgesics consumed, analysed using ANOVA and post hoc tests (P < 0.05).

RESULTS: Swelling peaked on postoperative day 2, with the KT + TDP group showing significantly less swelling than other groups (P < 0.05). Pain scores were highest in the KT-only group (P = 0.00), while TDP and IM groups showed comparable pain reduction. Statistical analysis confirmed the significant differences among the groups (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: The combination of a transdermal diclofenac patch and Kinesio tape offers the most effective relief, significantly reducing postoperative pain and swelling, indicating a synergistic effect. Integrating these non-invasive modalities into postoperative care protocols can enhance patient comfort and recovery following ORIF of mandibular angle fractures.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial was registered in Clinical Trials Registry of India, on 29/07/2021 holding Registration number CTRI/2021/07/035272 and was registered prospectively.