Ikram, J., Ali, A., Moeez, A., et al. | Effect of dexamethasone and lidocaine combination on incidence of post-operative sore throat: A meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis- Outcomes Research Consortium

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Ikram, J., Ali, A., Moeez, A., et al. | Effect of dexamethasone and lidocaine combination on incidence of post-operative sore throat: A meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

November 29, 2025

Background: Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a common complication after endotracheal intubation, occurring in 30–50 % of patients. While lidocaine (local anesthetic) and dexamethasone (anti-inflammatory) are used individually to prevent POST, their combined efficacy remains unclear. This meta-analysis synthesizes evidence from randomized controlled trials to determine whether Intravenous dexamethasone-lidocaine combination is more effective than dexamethasone alone in reducing POST incidence.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science to identify studies comparing the effect of dexamethasone with and without lidocaine on the incidence of POST, cough, and hoarseness. Statistical analysis was performed on RevMan. Data were pooled using a random-effects model (Mantel-Haenszel method), with results reported as risk ratios (RR) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs); heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. We use Gradpro GDT and Trial sequential analysis to assess the certainty and reliability of evidence, respectively.