Objective:

In this study, the effect dexmedetomidine usage before anesthesia induction on propofol requirement and hemodynamic changes appearing against laryngoscopy and intubation; and the degree of sedation provided is investigated.

Material and Methods:

80 patients were randomly assigned into two groups (Group DXM, and Group PLS). 30 minutes before induction 1 μg/kg dexmedetomidine in 100ml saline was administered to Group DXM and 100ml saline-only was administered to Group PLS in ten minutes. Anesthesia induction was performed by 2 μg/kg fentanyl, propofol infusion at eyelash reflex; and 0.1 mg/kg vecuronium. Blood pressures and heart rates before premedication, before and after induction, after laryngoscopy and intubation and 5 minutes after intubation and Ramsay scores before and after premedication were evaluated.

Results:

While group PLS required 2.27±0.43 mg/kg propofol at induction, this quantity was 1.27±0.22 mg/kg in group DXM (p<0.001). Mean blood pressure and heart rate decreased significantly in group DXM after premedication compared to group PLS (p<0.01). The decrease in MBP after induction in Group DXM was significantly lower than Group PLS (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

Dexmedetomidine usage before induction decreases the required amount of propofol significantly. Although 1Ìg/kg dexmedetomidine decreases blood pressure and heart rate markedly, this decrease is not big enough to compromise hemodynamics. By using dexmedetomidine sedation is provided effectively before induction, hemodynamic changes generated against induction, laryngoscopy and intubation become more stable.

Keywords: Dexmedetomidine, propofol, induction, sedation