Odontogenic cervicofacial infections requiring inpatient management are treated in a routine manner by oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Manitoba. After a standardized pre-operative workup, patients undergo surgical intervention including extraction of necessary teeth and incision and drainage of associated abscess(es). Patients are treated post-operatively with antibiotics, steroids, and medications for supportive care until appropriate for discharge.

Benefits of intravenous corticosteroids in patients undergoing dentoalveolar and maxillofacial surgery include improved comfort, reduced post-operative edema, and shortened time to recovery. Corticosteroids also aid in reducing the risk of morbidity by limiting mass effect from edema and associated airway obstruction. In addition, their anti-inflammatory effect limits further swelling from manipulation of soft tissues during surgical procedures. Current literature supports the use of corticosteroids in the management of primary and deep space neck infections. However, corticosteroid dosing regimens are currently determined by the clinical judgment of the attending surgeon and are not standardized.

The purpose of this study was to provide guidance for optimal dosing of methylprednisolone in the management of odontogenic cervicofacial infections. This prospective study followed the inpatient course of 28 patients with various cervicofacial infections of odontogenic origin. All patients were treated with a standardized surgical protocol, antibiotics, and steroids. Patients were randomized to receive one of two methylprednisolone dosing regimens. 14 patients were assigned to receive one dose of methylprednisolone 125mg IV at the time of surgery. The remaining 14 patients received one dose of methylprednisolone 125mg IV at the time of surgery and three consecutive doses of methylprednisolone 125mg IV every six hours post-operatively. Patients were evaluated at the time of hospital presentation and daily throughout admission. Outcomes evaluated included C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, white blood cell (WBC) count, length of hospital admission, and trismus. By examining differences in outcome success variables, the goal of this study was to support future evidence-based dosing decisions in the peri-operative treatment of inpatients in Manitoba. Data analysis showed a greater reduction in CRP throughout admission in the four-dose methylprednisolone group that was statistically significant. No significant difference in daily WBC count or trismus was found.