International Journal of Tropical Medicine
ISSN: Online 1818-779XISSN: Print 1816-3319
Abstract
As a highly selective α‐2 receptor agonist, dexmedetomidine induces sedation, analgesia and anxiolytic through central sympatholytic mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate the impact of dexmedetomidine in managing postoperative emergence agitation (EA) in pediatric patients undergoing sevoflurane anesthesia. The study included 100 male and female patients aged 2‐7 years, classified as ASA class I (American Society of Anesthesiologists) and those who were scheduled for elective adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy, or both. Patients were instructed to refrain from consuming solid foods or milk six hours prior to surgery. If necessary, filtered liquids were permitted until two hours before the procedure. No premeditation was administered and upon arrival in the operating room, agitation levels were assessed and scored using a four‐point scale. Standard monitoring, including electrocardiography, pulse oximetry and non‐invasive blood pressure measurement, was performed. The data revealed that majority of patients were calm, while about 30% exhibited agitation, with a chi‐square test indicating statistical significance. Additionally, the incidences of bradycardia, hypotension and vomiting were noted, with chi‐square values, which was also statistically significant. Dexmedetomidine effectively reduced the occurrence of postoperative emergence agitation in children under sevoflurane anesthesia. Dexmedetomidine may help reduce postoperative pain, extend emergence and extubation times. Based on the findings, dexmedetomidine appears to be a promising agent for preventing EA in pediatric patients under sevoflurane anesthesia. However, additional studies are needed to further explore its potential in preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting.
How to cite this article:
Gaganpal Singh and Gajendra Kumar. Pediatric Postoperative Agitation Mitigation by Dexmedetomidine: A Cross‐Sectional Study.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makijtm.2016.308.311
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1816-3319/10.36478/makijtm.2016.308.311