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

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.