Effects of Perioperative Intravenous Dexamethasone on Pain in Out Patient Knee Surgery

Effects of Perioperative Intravenous Dexamethasone on Pain in Out Patient Knee Surgery

The purpose of the study is to determine the opiate sparing effects of intravenously administered dexamethasone in outpatient knee surgery. Dexamethasone is a glucocorticoid with well known antiemetic effects. However, the analgesic effects of dexamethasone have not been adequately researched. Following surgery, patients are typically discharged home with PO opiates to manage post-operative pain. The investigators believe that by using VAS (Visual Analog Scale) for Pain the investigators can show that a single dose of dexamethasone can reduce pain scales and opiate consumption post-operatively, on Post Operative Day (POD 1) when compared to placebo.

Findings of Modest improvement in pain scores and postoperative nausea at 24 hours with Dexamethasone

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients undergoing ambulatory knee arthroscopy surgery
• Must provide phone contact number and agree to phone followup on post operative day 1

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with major systemic disease
• Allergy or intolerance to study drug