Abstract :
Introduction: Extubation is usually associated with undesirable increase in hemodynamics.
Dexmedetomidine has shown to provide smooth and hemodynamically stable emergence. Primary objective
of the present study was to assess incidence of cough at extubation following single dose dexmedetomidine
given prior to extubation. Secondary objectives included assessment of changes heart rate and blood
pressure at extubation, post operative nausea, vomiting and shivering.
Materials and Methods: This randomized control study was conducted in 40 ASA I-II patients with 20 in
each group. Group A received 0.75mcg/kg dexmedetomidine and group B received normal saline, 30min
prior to end of surgery as an infusion over 10min. Cough scores were recorded at the end of extubation.
Students T test and Chi square test were used as applicable for statistical analysis.
Results: Incidence of cough at extubation was comparable in both groups (66.7% vs. 63.6%, p 1.00).
Baseline mean arterial pressure was comparable in both groups, but at 3min after extubation it was
significantly lower in Group A. Heart rate, postoperative nausea, vomiting, shivering and sedation scores
did not show any significant difference between the two groups (p>0.05)
Conclusion: An infusion of dexmedetomidine at 0.75mcg/kg prior to extubation did not affect the severity
of cough but resulted in improved hemodynamics after extubation.
Keyword :
Dexmedetomidine, Extubation, General anaesthesia, Cough, Hemodynamic.