The hemodynamic and analgesic efficacy of subcutaneous dexmedetomidine versus Marcaine 0.5% in postoperative pain management following herniorrhaphy

Abstract

Background: This study addressed the comparative hemodynamic and analgesic effects of subcutaneous dexmedetomidine versus Marcaine 0.5% on herniorrhaphy scheduled patients, as well as postoperative pain management. Materials and Methods: A double-blind trial was conducted in three groups of patients (n = 120) scheduled for herniorrhaphy. The study groups were (i) Marcaine + dexmedetomidine (MAR-DEX) group, receiving Marcaine 0.5% (5 mg) + dexmedetomidine (1 mcg/kg), (ii) MAR group, Marcaine 0.5% (5 mg), and (iii) PBO group, placebo, subcutaneously. Vital signs (blood pressure/heart rate/SaO2), as well as pain scores (using the Visual Analog Scale) at recovery and certain time points (1, 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 h postoperatively) were measured. Moreover, the overall opioid administered postoperatively and the side effects were recorded. Data were analyzed by SPSS (version 20) software by analysis of variance and repeated measurement tests. Results: Lower pain score was revealed in the MAR-DEX group and higher one in the PBO group (P < 0.001), whereas the lowest opioid use was observed in the MAR-DEX group (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Adding dexmedetomidine had benefits of relieving pain and reducing opioid use without any side effects.

Keywords

• dexmedetomidine
• hemodynamic changes
• marcaine 0.5%
• subcutaneous injection