Sensory block duration after spinal anaesthesia supplemented with intravenous dexamethasone: a randomised controlled double-blinded trial
Authors' conclusion
Intravenous dexamethasone did not prolong the sensory block of spinal anaesthesia with isobaric bupivacaine. However, it reduced morphine consumption and rate of postoperative nausea and vomiting at 24 h, at the expense of an increased blood glucose.
Study context
- Population
- Patients undergoing lower limb osteoarticular surgery under spinal anaesthesia with isobaric bupivacaine 15 mg i.t. plus morphine 100 μg i.t.
- Participants
- 50 patients
- Comparison
- IV dexamethasone 0.15 mg kg-1 vs normal saline 3 ml
- Primary endpoint
- Duration of sensory block (time from intrathecal injection to regression of sensory block by two dermatomes from the highest dermatome blocked)
Methodological detailsdouble-blinded
- Double-blinded
Primary result
As reported in the abstract
P = 0.19
Secondary outcomes
IV morphine consumption · 24 h
- Less morphine in the dexamethasone group
PONV · 2 h and 24 h
- Significantly less PONV in the dexamethasone group
Other secondary outcomes (pain scores at rest and on movement)
- Similar between groups
Safety
Blood glucose · 24 h
- Increased blood glucose in the dexamethasone group
Original publication
Sensory block duration after spinal anaesthesia supplemented with intravenous dexamethasone: a randomised controlled double-blinded trial. Br J Anaesth. Published 23 March 2023. doi:10.
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