Comparative study of different kinesiology taping techniques to reduce postoperative morbidity after impacted mandibular third molar surgery.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to compare and evaluate the effects of two different kinesio tape techniques on pain, swelling and trismus after mandibular impacted third molar surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study was designed as a controlled, randomized, prospective clinical trial. Mandibular third molars classified as Class II Position B according to Pell and Gregory classification and as mesioangular position according to Winter's classification were extracted. Patients divided into three groups. After third molar surgery, the classical kinesio tape technique (Technique A- kinesio tape which was divided into three equal segments extending from the cheek region to the clavicle) was applied to the patients in Group 1, while new technique (Technique B- both the classical KT extending from the cheek to the clavicle and an additional Y-shaped KT supporting the masseter muscle) was applied to patients in Group 2. No kinesio tape was placed to the patients in Group 3 during the postoperative period. Antibiotic, analgesic and a mouthwash were prescribed to all three groups. Pain was evaluated using with visial analog scale for 7 days postoperatively. Swelling was assessed on the 2nd and 7th postoperative days by taking measurements from five different points using a paper ruler. Maximum mouth opening was recorded using a caliper postoperatively on the second and seventh days. RESULTS: Ninety patients (54 female, 36 male) were included in the study. Pain levels in Group 1 and Group 2 were statistically lower compared to Group 3. Statistical differences were found only on the 2nd and 3rd days between Group 1 and Group 2. The lowest pain level was observed in Group 2. Patients in Group 2 required the least amount of analgesics. Swelling in Group 1 and Group 2 was statistically lower than in Group 3. Statistically significant increases in mouth opening were observed in Group 1 and Group 2 compared to Group 3. No signs of infection were observed in the patients. The results of the quality of life scale indicated that patient satisfaction was highest in Group 2. CONCLUSIONS: Although kinesio tape applied with both different techniques was effective in reducing postoperative morbidity, Technique B was more effective.