European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Background: Spinal anaesthesia is the most commonly used technique for lower abdominal
surgeries as it is very economical and easy to administer. Dexmedetomidine, a new highly
selective α2-agonist, is under evaluation as a neuraxial adjuvant as it provides stable
hemodynamic conditions, good quality of intraoperative and prolonged postoperative
analgesia with minimal side effects.
Methods: Prospective double blinded, placebo-controlled study was undertaken in 60
patients allocated randomly by envelop method, divided into 2 groups (30 in each) between
18-50 years of age of either gender belonging to ASA class I and II scheduled for elective
lower segment caesarean section. Group A received 2 mL of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine
and 0.2ml dexmedetomidine and Group B received 2ml of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine with
0.2ml normal saline. The comparison was studied using the Chi-square test or Fisher's exact
test as appropriate, with the P value reported at the 95% confidence interval. P<0.05 was
considered statistically significant.
Results: The addition of dexmedetomidine resulted in a dose dependent prolongation of
sensory regression to S1 segment, prolonged motor block, the time to first analgesic rescue
was significantly prolonged in Group B as compared to Group A and showed Lower pain
scores as compared to placebo group.
Conclusion: Based on study results we recommend addition of dexmedetomidine 5 μg to
intrathecal hyperbaric 0.5% Bupivacaine 9 mg in elective lower segment caesarean section.