Dexmedetomidine Versus Propofol in Conjunction With Regional Block for Shoulder Arthroscopy

Dexmedetomidine Versus Propofol in Conjunction With Regional Block for Shoulder Arthroscopy: a Randomized Controlled Double Blind Trial

Operative shoulder arthroscopy under regional block anesthesia often presents with hemodynamic challenges for the anesthesiologist, knowing that a low systolic blood pressure is required to minimize the bleeding. Regional anesthesia is successfully performed to many patients in whom tracheal intubation or the placement of a laryngeal tube is undesired. Propofol has traditionally been used to provide sedation in patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopy under regional anesthesia. In contrast to Propofol, Dexmedetomidine is a highly selective α-2 adrenoceptor agonist that has been shown to provide sedation, analgesia and anxiolytic effects with minimal respiratory depression. Due to the effect of both drugs on blood pressure, the investigators set out to compare intraoperative hemodynamics of both drugs, along with the surgeon's satisfaction and the degree of comfort provided to patients undergoing interscalene brachial plexus block for shoulder arthroscopy. The investigators also assessed whether the type of anesthetic agent used for sedation accounted for other differences in intra and post-operative outcome measures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• American Society of Anesthesiologists score (ASA) I or II.
• Elective Shoulder arthroscopy.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Allergies to any of the used medications.
• ASA score of III or above.
• Cardiac abnormalities.
• Contraindications to regional blocks.
• Patient refusal.