Intra-thecal fentanyl in prevention of intraoperative shivering

Aims: This randomized double blind study was carried out to investigate effect of intrathecal fentanyl on incidence and severity of intraoperative shivering on patients undergoing lower abdominal surgeries under spinal anesthesia. Method: 120 patients undergoing lower abdominal surgeries under spinal anesthesia were assessed in a randomized fashion. They were divided in to two groups. Each subject received 3.5 ml 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine plus 25 µg fentanyl (Group F) or 4 ml 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine (Group C). The incidence and severity of shivering along with side effects after addition of fentanyl were observed. Results: The incidence of shivering after spinal anesthesia was 9 of 60 patients, 15% in group F and 24 of 60 patients; in 40% in group C. The difference was statistically significant (p<0.5). Only 2 patients of fentanyl group having moderate shivering while 16 patients of control group having moderate shivering. The difference was statistically significant (p<0.5). There was no difference in the incidence of side effects between two groups. Conclusion: The addition of 25 µg fentanyl in 3.5 ml of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine Intrathecally can reduce the incidence and severity of shivering after spinal anesthesia with increasing other side effects.