Publications

Abstract
Introduction and Objectives: Sub Arachnoid Block is one of the commonly used anaesthetic technique for lower limb surgeries, the duration
and quality of block can be prolonged using several adjuvants. The objective of this study was to assess the quality, duration of block and
time required for supplemental analgesia in patients undergoing lower limb surgeries.
Materials and Methods: Fifty ASA class I and II patients scheduled for lower limb surgeries, received Subarachnoid block with 15 mg
hyperbaric bupivacaine or 15 mg hyperbaric bupivacaine plus intravenous dexmedetomidine 0.5microgm/kg body weight in 10ml saline as
bolus dose prior to Sub Arachnoid Block. Outcome measures included onset and duration of sensory and motor block and duration of
analgesia.
Results: Duration of sensory block (p=0.0001), duration of motor block (p=0.0001) and duration of analgesia (p=0.0001) was significantly
longer in dexmedetomidine group than the patients who received Subarachnoid block with 15 mg Bupivacaine alone. A significant decrease
in heart rate, systolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure was noted in dexmedetomidine group.
Conclusion: Intravenous dexmedetomidine in a single dose of 0.5μg/kg, administered over a period of 10 minutes prior to sub arachnoid
block, prolongs the duration of sensory and motor blockade with arousable sedation, without any respiratory depression.
Keywords: Intravenous, Dexmedetomidine, Postoperative, Pain, Spinal anaesthesia, Analgesia, Sensory, Motor, Blockade.