Effect of dexmedetomidine added to ropivicaine for caudal anesthesia in patients undergoing hemorrhoidectomy: A prospective randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND: To assess the effect of dexmedetomidine added to ropivaccaine on the onset and duration of sensory block, as well as postoperative analgesia during caudal anesthesia in patients undergoing hemorrhoidectomy. METHODS: Fifty adult patients scheduled for hemorrhoidectomy were divided into 2 groups. The group R received caudal anesthesia using 18 mL 0.3% ropivacaine plus 2 mL normal saline. The group RD received 18 mL 0.3% ropivacaine plus 2 mL 1 μg/kg dexmedetomidine. Heart rate, mean blood pressure, onset time and duration of sensory block, and duration of analgesia were observed. RESULTS: The onset time of sensory block was shortened (9.2 ± 1.3 vs 7.2 ± 1.2), and the duration of sensory block (3.0 ± 0.7 vs 3.8 ± 0.8) and duration of analgesia (3.9 ± 0.7 vs 5.3 ± 0.8) were prolonged in group RD compared with group R (P < .05). The heart rate and the mean blood pressure were also lower in the group RD compared with group R at each observation time points, except the baseline (P < .05). No bradycardia or hypotension was reported. CONCLUSION: Dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to ropivacaine prolonged the duration of caudal block and improved postoperative analgesia without significant side effects in adult patients undergoing hemorrhoidectomy.