Respiratory effect of dexmedetomidine: as a sedative for sub-dural haematoma evacuation

Background: Maintaining arterial partial pressures of carbon dioxide and oxygen within physiological range is very crucial for the better outcome of neurosurgery patients. We studied respiratory effect of dexmedetomidine, fentanyl combination along with infiltration of local anesthesia for chronic SDH evacuation in ASA 2,3 and 4 patients. Material and methods: 56 patients with chronic SDH posted for burrhole evacuation were divided in to 2 groups. Group A received bolus dose dexmedetomidine 1 mcg/kg over 10 minutes in addition to fentanyl 1µgm/kg, midazolam 0.02 mg/kg , followed by infusion of dexmedetomidine 0.3µg/kg/min .group B recieved fentanyl 1 µg/kg , midazolam 0.02 mg/kg. Haemodynamics and artetial blood gas (ABG), between the two groups were compared. Results; Following medication, Partial pressure of carbon dioxide increased from baseline values in both the groups but the increase was significantly less in dexmedetomidine group (P