Using dexmedetomidine with bupivacaine for pain relief after heart surgery

Dexmedetomidine As an Adjuvant to Bupivacaine in Bilateral Pectoral Nerve Blocks for Postoperative Pain Control After Cardiac Surgeries: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Phase 4 Interventional Kasr El Aini Hospital · NCT06453681

This study is testing if adding dexmedetomidine to a standard pain relief method can help adults recovering from heart surgery feel less pain and recover faster.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages25 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorKasr El Aini Hospital Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Cairo and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06453681 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of dexmedetomidine as an additional pain relief option when combined with bupivacaine in bilateral pectoralis nerve blocks for patients undergoing cardiac surgeries. It involves 60 adult patients aged 25 to 65 who are scheduled for coronary artery bypass grafting or valve surgeries. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either the standard pectoralis nerve block or the block with dexmedetomidine. Pain levels will be assessed using a visual analog scale, and recovery metrics such as extubation time and inspiratory flow rate will be monitored.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 25 to 65 undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting or valve surgeries through midline sternotomy.

Not a fit: Patients with skin issues at the injection site, coagulopathy, or those requiring prolonged ventilation may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance pain management and improve recovery times for patients after cardiac surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar nerve block techniques, but the specific combination of dexmedetomidine and bupivacaine in this context is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* All adult patients between the age groups of 25 and 65 years undergoing either coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or valve surgeries through midline sternotomy under general anesthesia

Exclusion Criteria:

* Skin erosions, hematomas or infection at the injection site.
* coagulopathy, ACT more than 150 seconds
* History of hypersensitivity to bupivacaine or Dexametomedine.
* The Patients who are unable to use the pain score.
* patients who will need prolonged post-operative ventilation or inotropic support.

Where this trial is running

Cairo and 1 other locations

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 Post Operative PainPECsdexameditomedine
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.