Dexamethasone Versus Dexmedetomidine as Adjuncts to Serratus Anterior Plane Block

Dexamethasone Versus Dexmedetomidine as Adjuncts to Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia After Modified Radical Mastectomy A Randomized Clinical Study

Modified radical mastectomy is the most commonly performed surgical approach for breast cancer. The procedure enables surgeons to remove the main tumor mass, adjacent glandular tissue and regional lymph nodes. Moreover, it provides a cosmetic outcome that clearly surpasses the standard radical mastectomy and allows subsequent breast reconstruction with favorable results.

The present randomized study aims to compare the postoperative analgesic effects of dexamethasone and dexmedetomidine as adjuncts to serratus anterior plane block in women undergoing modified radical mastectomy.

Modified radical mastectomy is the most commonly performed surgical approach for breast cancer. The procedure enables surgeons to remove the main tumor mass, adjacent glandular tissue and regional lymph nodes. Moreover, it provides a cosmetic outcome that clearly surpasses the standard radical mastectomy and allows subsequent breast reconstruction with favorable results.

Serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) with ultrasound guidance is a fascial plane block that proved to be feasible, safe and effective tool for reduction of postoperative pain after thoracic and breast surgeries. In multiple instances, SAPB is used with additional adjuncts e.g. dexamethasone or dexmedetomidine to improve analgesic potency and duration.

Inclusion Criteria:

Consecutive American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class I-II female patients with breast cancer indicated for modified radical mastectomy

Exclusion Criteria:

Allergy to the study medications . Patients will also be excluded if they have history of chronic pain conditions, opioid dependence or if they received prolonged analgesic therapy prior to surgery.