BACKGROUND: Induction with propofol has a high incidence of pain, as well as postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a course of dexamethasone on the pain, postoperative nausea and vomiting associated with a Propofol injection, in patients undergoing otolaryngology-head and neck surgery.

METHODS: One hundred twenty adults, 20-60 years of age, ASA physical status I or II, were allocated to one of two groups. Either dexamethasone 5 ml (8 mg) or saline 5 ml was administered intravenously to each group. After 60 seconds, propofol was injected into the patients' hand veins over a 30 second period and the patient was asked questions regarding the injection pain after 10 seconds. Postoperative nausea, vomiting and post-tonsilectomy pain were recorded in the recovery room (1 h after surgery) and in the hospitalization area (6 h after surgery).

RESULTS: The severity and incidence of pain at the time of the propofol injection, PONV, and the level of post-tonsillectomy pain were significantly lower in the dexamethasone group than in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS: The prophylactic intravenous administration of 8 mg dexamethasone is effective in reducing the severity of pain after a propofol injection and after the tonsillectomy, and decreased the incidence of PONV.