Incidence of Postoperative Sore Throat in Patients Undergoing General Anesthesia in Grande International Hospital

Abstract

Background:

Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a common complication following general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation. Although it is usually self-limiting, POST can significantly affect patient comfort and satisfaction with anesthesia care. The incidence of POST varies widely due to differences in airway management techniques, patient characteristics and perioperative factors. This study aimed to determine the incidence and severity of POST and identify the factors associated with POST, among patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia at Grande International Hospital.

Methods:

A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted among 154 patients aged 1865 years with ASA physical status I and II undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation from March 2026 to May 2026. Patients undergoing emergency, head and neck surgeries, and unconscious patients were excluded. Data regarding demographic characteristics, duration of surgery and anesthesia, laryngoscopic attempts, cuff pressure, and postoperative sore throat severity were collected. POST was assessed at 2, 4, 12, and 24 hours postoperatively using the Farhang and Grondin grading scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16. Chi-square test was used to determine associations between variables, with p <0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results:

The overall incidence of POST was 91 (59.1%). Mild sore throat was the most common presentation, predominantly occurring within the first 2 postoperative hours 56 (36.4%). Female patients had a slightly higher incidence of POST 66 (60%) compared to males 25 (56.8%). Younger participants aged 19–38 years demonstrated the highest incidence of POST 47 (71.2%), and age showed a statistically significant association with POST (p=0.017). No significant association was observed between POST and gender, BMI, duration of anesthesia, duration of surgery, ASA physical status, or number of laryngoscopic attempts.

Conclusion:

POST remains a frequent complication following endotracheal intubation under general anesthesia. Most cases were mild and resolved within 24 hours. Younger age was significantly associated with POST. Implementation of meticulous airway management and preventive strategies may help reduce POST and improve patient satisfaction.