Overview
This study aims to compare the efficacy of intrathecal morphine and intrathecal dexmedetomidine in reducing pain following lumbar spine fixation surgeries.
Description
Spine surgeries represent a challenge to the anesthetists, as they are accompanied by multiple perioperative problems, including significant intraoperative blood loss and severe postoperative pain.
Morphine is a prototypical opioid analgesic that acts mainly on mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system. It exerts its analgesic effects by binding to these receptors, inhibiting the release of a neurotransmitter known as substance P, thereby diminishing pain perception.
Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is a highly selective and potent α-2 adrenoceptor agonist. Its intrathecal administration leads to anti-nociceptive effects, although it has some undesired side effects (e.g., hypotension, bradycardia, and sedation).
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Aged between 21 and 60 years.
- Both sexes.
- American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Physical Status I or II.
- Scheduled for elective lumbar spine fixation surgery under general anesthesia.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Patients' refusal.
- Decompensated hepatic or renal or cardiac disease.
- Coagulation disorder.
- Pregnancy and lactation.
- Body mass index above 30 kg/m2.
- Severe pulmonary disorders.
- Patients on opioid, alcohol or allergy to any of the study drugs.
