Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Sevoflurane Requirements and Emergence Agitation in Children Undergoing Ambulatory Surgery

Although the aetiology of emergence agitation (EA) derives from multiple factors, it is a frequent side effect of sevoflurane anaesthesia in children. Dexmedetomidine, a potent selective α2-adrenergic agonist, can reduce the doses of hypnotics, opioids, analgesics, and anaesthetics that must be concomitantly administered. This study was conducted to assess the effect of dexmedetomidine infusion on sevoflurane requirements and recovery profiles with EA in children undergoing ambulatory surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ASA class I
• obtaining written informed consent from the parents
• aged 1-5 years, and weighing <20 kg who were undergoing ambulatory hernioplasty or orchiopexy

Exclusion Criteria:

• mental retardation
• developmental delays
• neurological or psychiatric illnesses
• coagulation disorder
• spinal anomalies
• bilateral procedures