Intrathecal Dexmedetomidine Versus Nalbuphine as Adjuvant to Levobupivacaine among Patients Undergoing Infraumblical Surgeries in Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

AIM : This study aimed to observe the efficacy of dexmedetomidine versus nalbuphine as an adjuvant to 0.5% Hyperbaric Levobupivacaine administered intrathecally for infraumbilical surgeries.

OBJECTIVES : To assess the time of onset, duration of sensory and motor block and intraoperative hemodynamic stability .

MATERIALS AND METHODOLOY: A Prospective observational parallel study conducted at Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital for a period of 1year from January 2023 onwards. 34 patients were selected for the study based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Objectives assessed using loss of sensation to pinprick (sensory) and modified bromage scale (motor). Data collection involved Age, gender, height, weight, BMI, ASA class, highest sensory block level and time to achieve it, time of onset and time taken for regression of sensory and motor block, intraoperative hemodynamic parameters (heart rate, SBP, DBP, MAP) in study groups.

RESULTS: The effects of nalbuphine and dexmedetomidine on individuals undergoing subarachnoid block were examined in this study. Compared to the LN group, the LD group exhibited a shorter onset time for motor blockade and a longer onset time for sensory inhibition. Additionally, the duration of motor blockade regression was prolonged by dexmedetomidine. Nonetheless, there was no apparent difference in the groups' haemodynamic responses. According to the study, dexmedetomidine may prove helpful for prolonged infra-umbilical procedures. According to the findings, dexmedetomidine could serve as a helpful adjuvant for infra-umbilical procedures that take longer than anticipated.

CONCLUSION: Dexmedetomidine, an adjunct to levobupivacaine, is a superior choice over nalbuphine in infra-umbilical surgical procedures due to its ability to accelerate sensory and motor blockade, longer duration of action.