Using dexmedetomidine to improve pain relief after thoracotomy
Role of Dexmedetomidine as an Adjuvant in External Oblique Intercostal Plane Block for Post Thoracotomy Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if adding dexmedetomidine to a new pain relief technique can help people feel less pain after thoracotomy surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Tanta University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tanta, El-Gharbia) |
| Trial ID | NCT06684535 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to the external oblique intercostal plane block (EOIPB) for managing post-thoracotomy pain. The EOIPB is a novel technique that targets the upper lateral abdominal walls to provide analgesia. By incorporating dexmedetomidine, which has sedative and analgesic properties, the study aims to enhance pain control without causing respiratory depression. Participants will receive either dexmedetomidine or saline as part of their pain management protocol.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older scheduled for open thoracotomy with ASA physical status I-III.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological disabilities, severe cardiovascular issues, or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve pain management for patients undergoing thoracotomy.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of dexmedetomidine in pain management is established, the specific combination with EOIPB is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age ≥ 18 years. * Both sexes. * American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) physical status I-III. * Scheduled for open thoracotomy. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with neurological or intellectual disability. * Infection at the injection site. * Drug abuse. * Allergic reaction to local anesthetics. * Coagulation abnormalities. * Pregnancy. * Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m2. * Severe cardiovascular problems. * Diabetic neuropathy.
Where this trial is running
Tanta, El-Gharbia
- Tanta University — Tanta, El-Gharbia, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Mohammed S Elsharkawy, MD
- Email: mselsharkawy@med.tanta.edu.eg
- Phone: 00201148207870
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.