Abstract
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to compare the suture versus sutureless surgery in impacted mandibular third molar and to evaluate the morbidity and complications associated with each technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 50 patients with asymptomatic impacted mandibular third molars were randomly divided into two groups of 25 patients each. Radiographs were taken to assess the angulation and degree of eruption in the third molar. A small modified Szmyd, V-shaped flap was raised in all cases, and teeth were extracted. In Group I-Suture group (suture was used to close the flap), and in Group II-Sutureless group (no suture used to close the flap). The post-operative pain, swelling, trismus, haemorrhage, periodontal pocket, and alveolar osteitis were evaluated at 24 h, 48 h, 5th days, 7th days, and 2 weeks after surgery. The statistical analysis was done using the Chi-square "t" test and Independent Samples "t" test. OBSERVATIONS AND RESULTS: Pain, swelling, and trismus were found to be significantly reduced especially in the immediate post-operative period in the sutureless group as compared to the suture group (p < 0.001). There were no incidences of intra-operative and post-operative haemorrhage in any case. Follow-up of all the patients showed that there was no difference in periodontal sequelae and alveolar osteitis. CONCLUSIONS: Sutureless surgery with small flap was found to be less invasive, time-saving, and also a cost-effective method. This technique significantly reduced the early crucial phase of patient discomfort and demonstrates good results.