The Effect of Low Dose and High Dose Prednisolone in Sunderland Grade II Nerve Injury: a Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of low-dose and high-dose prednisolone on clinical recovery in Sunderland Grade II nerve injuries.

Methodology: A cross  sectional  study was carried out among 60 patients  presented with Sunderland Grade II nerve injury involving mental nerve, IAN and lingual nerve. Patients were divided into two groups taking prednisolone;  Group A (Low-Dose), Group B (High-Dose). The outcomes VAS, Neuropathic  pain scale (NPS)  for pain, two point  discrimination and light  touch tests, mapping of the affected dermatome to confirm the nerve involvement and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) for improvement. Patients were followed up at weeks 4, 8 and 12 months. The data was analyzed using SPSS 23.0 version.

Results: The mean age presentation in both Groups  was 34.1±10 years. Male were dominant. VAS significantly reduced in both groups but high dose group showed faster reduction. In high- dose group there is rapid improvement in NPS than low-dose group. In 60% of patients in high dose group PGIC showed “very much improvement”. After 12 weeks high dose group showed a significant  sensory recovery than low-dose  group. No major complications  was noted in both groups.

Conclusion: High dose  prednisolone is effective and safer in Sunderland Grade II nerve injuries involving maxillofacial region.