Evaluating the Role of the Jaw Thrust Maneuver During Tracheal Intubation in Reducing the Incidence of Postoperative Sore Throat: A Prospective Randomized Study

Background: Endotracheal intubation is commonly associated with postoperative sore throat. We evaluated the effect of the jaw thrust maneuver on the incidence and severity of sore throat. Methods: A total of 110 female patients undergoing laparoscopic abdominal procedures were enrolled in the study, and 99 patients were included in the final analysis. The patients were randomized into 2 groups: the jaw thrust group (n=49) and the non-jaw thrust group (n=50). Sore throat monitoring and grading were performed at 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours postextubation. Results: The overall incidence of sore throat was higher in the non-jaw thrust group than in the jaw thrust group, with a maximum incidence at 4 hours, and the difference in incidence between the 2 groups was significant at the 4-, 8-, 12-, and 24-hour time points postextubation. However, no significant difference in sore throat severity was found between the non-jaw thrust and jaw thrust groups. The time of laryngoscopy was significantly less for patients in the jaw thrust group. Conclusion: In our population, the jaw thrust maneuver lowered the incidence but not the severity of sore throat during the initial 24 hours after extubation. The jaw thrust maneuver also significantly lowered laryngoscopy time.