Background: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) can be associated with significant postoperative pain. Poor pain control can adversely affect patient's recovery.
Aim of the Work: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of dexmedetomidine addition to Bupivacaine in lumbar erector spinae plane block (L-ESPB) on duration of postoperative analgesia after THA.
Patients and Methods: This randomized, controlled, double blind study was carried out on 60 patients undergoing THA under spinal anesthesia, their age ranged between 18 and 65 years, both sexes with ASA I-III. Postoperatively, all Patients received unilateral L-ESPB on the operated side using either 30mL 0.25% plain bupivacaine (Group B) or 30mL 0.25% bupivacaine in addition to 1μg/kg dexmedetomidine (Group BD).
Results: Time of 1st rescue analgesia was delayed in group BD. Total dose of nalbuphine consumption in the first 24h was lower in group BD than group B. Pain score was lower at 8h, 12h and 16h in group BD than group B. Sedation score was similar in both groups. Heart rate and mean blood pressure readings were lower at 8h, 12h and 16h in group BD than group B. Hypotension, bradycardia and nausea and vomiting were similar in both groups.
Conclusion: The addition of dexmedetomidine to bupivacaine in L-ESPB after THA prolongs analgesia, reduces opioid consumption.