Original Research Article
Year: 2018 | Month: November | Volume: 5 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 202-207
Comparative Study of Varying Doses of Dexmedetomidine Combined with Levobupivacaine in Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block: A Randomized Double-Blind Prospective Study
Dr. Inugala Rajkumar Reddy1, Dr. Syed Ali Aasim2, Dr. Jakkani Manish Kumar3
1Assistant Professor, 2Professor & HOD, 3Post Graduate;
Department of Anesthesiology, Chalmeda Anandrao Institute of Medical Sciences, Bommakal Village, Karimnagar District, Telangana State, India
Corresponding Author: Dr. Inugala Rajkumar Reddy
ABSTRACT
Background: Regional anesthesia is a recommended technique for upper and lower limb surgeries with better postoperative profile. The ideal dose of dexmedetomidine for brachial plexus block is a matter of debate. Few studies compared the effect of different doses of dexmedetomidine.
Aims and Objectives: This study was carried out to evaluate 50 μg or 100 μg of dexmedetomidine added to 0.5% levobupivacaine, with regard to the duration of analgesia.
Materials and Methods: 120 patients undergoing upper limb surgeries under supraclavicular brachial plexus block were randomly allocated into two groups. Group LD50 (n=60) received 29 ml of 0.5% levobupivacaine plus 50 μg of dexmedetomidine diluted in 1 ml of normal saline. Group LD100 (n=60) received 29 ml of 0.5% levobupivacaine plus 100 μg of dexmedetomidine diluted in 1 ml of normal saline. Duration of analgesia was the primary outcome observed.
Results: The duration of analgesia was significantly prolonged in group LD100 when compared to LD50 group (P = 0.001). Significantly fewer patients in group LD100 required rescue analgesia.
Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine 100 μg used for brachial plexus block showed quicker onset and prolonged duration of sensorimotor blockade and analgesia, but had higher incidence of bradycardia and sedation.
Key words: Anaesthesia, Brachial plexus block, Dexmedetomidine, Levobupivacaine.
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