Effectiveness of dexmedetomidine in reducing bleeding during septoplasty and tympanoplasty operations

Abstract

Study objective: To determine the effect of dexmedetomidine on intraoperative bleeding during septoplasty and tympanoplasty operations.

Design: Randomized, placebo-controlled study.

Setting: Univesity medical center.

Patients: 80 ASA physical status I and II patients, aged 18 to 65 years, 40 of whom were scheduled for septoplasty and 40 to undergo tympanoplasty operations.

Interventions: Patients undergoing septoplasty (S) and tympanoplasty (T) operations were randomly divided into 4 groups. Dexmedetomidine (D) was administered to Group SD and Group TD first as a bolus dose of one microg kg(-1), then intraoperative maintenance was supplied with dexmedetomidine 0.7 microg kg(-1) hour(-1). Groups S and T (controls) were given identical amounts of saline. If systolic blood pressure measurements are greater than 20% preoperative values, then fentanyl one microg kg(-1) was given.

Measurements: Intraoperative blood loss was determined with suction volumes and gauze counting. Bleeding was rated according to a 6-point scale. Hemodynamic parameters and fentanyl administration were recorded.

Main results: Group SD had less bleeding and lower bleeding scores (P < 0.05). In addition, this group received less intraoperative fentanyl (P < 0.05). The only significant difference between Groups TD and T was the amount of intraoperative fentanyl given (35.4 +/- 58.8 vs 110.0 +/- 81.0 microg) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine reduces bleeding, bleeding scores, and intraoperative fentanyl consumption during general anesthesia in septoplasty operations.