Dexmedetomidine, Ketamine and Lidocaine Infusion for Prevention of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Laparoscopic Gynecological Surgery: Randomized Trial

Abstract

Background: The intraoperative use of large bolus doses or continuous infusions of potent opioids may be associated with increased analgesic consumption postoperatively. In ambulatory surgery, opioid related side effects, such as postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), prolonged sedation, ileus and urinary retention may delay recovery and discharge or cause unanticipated hospital readmission. The aim was to evaluate the effect of opioid sparing technique via infusion of dexmedetomidine, ketamine and lidocaine on post-operative nausea and vomiting in laparoscopic gynecological surgery. Methods: A total of 80 patients were randomly allocated into 2 groups, 40 patients each. Control group (group c) received fentanyl while, Study group (group S) received infusion of a mixture of dexmedetomidine, ketamine and lidocaine. The PONV impact scale, intraoperative consumption of isoflurane and fentanyl and post operative 24 hr. morphine consumption were measured. Results: 18 (45%) patients of control group experienced PONV versus 7 (17.5%) patients of study group and it was clinically significant. Clinically significant vomiting was observed in10 (25%) patients of control group and 1 (2.5%) patient of study group. There was a marked reduction in fentanyl, isoflurane and 24 hours’ morphine consumption in group S compared to group C.  Conclusion: Opioid sparing anesthesia with dexmedetomidine, ketamine and lidocaine infusion are superior to fentanyl for prevention of post-operative nausea and vomiting and reduction of isoflurane and, fentanyl consumption and provides better patient satisfaction in laparoscopic gynecological surgery.