Intranasal Dexmedetomidine Sedation During Intra-articular Joint Injections in Pediatric Population

Intranasal Dexmedetomidine Sedation During Intra-articular Joint Injections in Pediatric Population

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effectivity of intranasal dexmedetomidine sedation during intra-articular injection therapy. Intranasal dexmedetomidine is compared with dinitrous oxide (N2O) which has already been proven safe and effective sedation method during painful procedures in pediatric patients.

In earlier studies the median VAS during intra-articular corticosteroid injections with patients receiving nitrous oxide has been 3 (Uziel et al 2008). Study hypothesis is that with intranasal dexmedetomidine sedation the VAS pain levels will be 1 unit lower.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patient age between ages 1year to 18 years
• A joint inflammation in 1-5 joints needing intra-articular corticosteroid injection diagnosed by pediatric rheumatologist

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients under the age of 1year and over the age of 18years are excluded as well as patients needing injection therapy to more than 5 joints.