Using dexmedetomidine to prevent delirium after heart surgery

Dexmedetomidinine in the Prevention of Postoperative Delirium in the Intensive Care Unit After Cardiac Surgery

Phase 3 Interventional University of Novi Sad · NCT05849597

This study is testing if using a medication called dexmedetomidine instead of propofol can help prevent confusion and improve recovery in adults after heart surgery.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Novi Sad Academic / other
Locations1 site (Kamenitz)
Trial IDNCT05849597 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial is a prospective, randomized, single-blinded, controlled study comparing the effects of sedation with dexmedetomidine versus propofol in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Adult patients scheduled for procedures involving cardiopulmonary bypass will be randomly assigned to receive either dexmedetomidine or propofol upon arrival in the intensive care unit. The sedation levels will be monitored using the Richmond Agitation and Sedation Scale, and various postoperative parameters will be recorded to assess outcomes related to delirium and recovery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults undergoing elective open heart surgery with a left ventricular ejection fraction greater than 40%.

Not a fit: Patients with preoperative atrial fibrillation, serious mental illness, or those requiring emergency procedures may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium in cardiac surgery patients, improving recovery and overall outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with dexmedetomidine in reducing postoperative delirium, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* patients undergoing open heart surgery with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass (including coronary artery bypass grafting, valve repair/replacement, and combined)
* left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) \>40%.

Exclusion Criteria:

* preoperative atrial fibrillation
* previous history of interventionally treated arrhythmias
* second and third degree atrioventricular block
* bradycardia with heart rate ≤50/min
* pacemaker
* renal or hepatic insufficiency
* emergency procedures
* history of serious mental illness, delirium, and severe dementia

Where this trial is running

Kamenitz

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Intensive Care Unit Deliriumopen heart surgerysedationdexmedetomidinepostoperative delirium
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.