Comparing low dose dexmedetomidine and ketamine for pain management in patients with multiple rib fractures

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of low dose dexmedetomidine versus ketamine in managing pain and assessing diaphragmatic function in patients with multiple rib fractures undergoing conservative treatment. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either dexmedetomidine, ketamine, or a placebo saline infusion over a five-day period during their ICU stay. The study aims to determine which medication provides better pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects in this patient population.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults (age 18-65 years) of American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-II
* Traumatic multiple fracture ribs 3 ribs or more, who will be subjected to thorough assessments including chest 3D-CT
* Undergoing conservative treatment (chest strappings)
* Intractable pain with visual analogue scale (VAS) over 6 after traditional therapies
* Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) ≥ 13.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Multiple traumas to body parts other than chest with an abbreviated injury scale over 3
* Serious head trauma with a Glasgow coma scale lower than 13
* Mechanically ventilated patients
* Massive hemothorax
* Injury to the trachea or bronchus with requirement for immediate surgery
* Dementia
* Use of corticosteroids during ICU stay
* Sepsis
* Continued use of neuromuscular blocking agents and aminoglycosides antibiotic use as they are known risk factors for ICU-acquired weakness and any known hypersensitivity
* Contraindication to the study drugs.

Where it's running

• Assiut university hospital
  Asyut, Assuit, Egypt Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Omar Soliman, MD
• Email: omarmakram347@yahoo.com
• Phone: 01101266040

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.