Dexmedetomidine for Analgesia in Nonintubated Patients With Traumatic Rib Fractures: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors' conclusion
Adjunctive dexmedetomidine did not reduce opioid consumption, improve pain scores, or lower pulmonary complication rates in nonintubated patients in the ICU with traumatic rib fractures.
Study context
- Population
- Nonintubated adult trauma patients with 3 or more rib fractures admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a level I trauma centerenrolled
- Participants
- 41 patients
- Comparison
- Dexmedetomidine vs Placebo
- Dexmedetomidinen = 19
- Primary endpoint
- Numerical pain score (NPS)
- Follow-up
- Over 48 hours
Methodological detailsprospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single-centre, July 2021 to October 2023, single academic level I trauma center ICU
- Prospective
- Double-blind
- Placebo-controlled
- Single-centre
- July 2021 to October 2023
- Single academic level I trauma center ICU
Primary result
As reported in the abstract
Numerical pain score
Dexmedetomidine
4
median
Placebo
4
median
Secondary outcomes
Oral morphine equivalents (OME) · 24 hours
Oral morphine equivalents (OME) · up to 48 hours
Pulmonary complication rates and ICU LOS
- Similar in both groups
Safety
- Dexmedetomidine discontinuation due to adverse events or patient request
- 47.4%
Original publication
Dexmedetomidine for Analgesia in Nonintubated Patients With Traumatic Rib Fractures: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Surg. Published 1 October 2025. doi:10.
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