Different Doses of Dexmedetomidine in External Oblique Intercostal Plane Block in Splenectomy

Comparing the Analgesic Effects of Different Doses of Dexmedetomidine as an Adjuvant in External Oblique Intercostal Plane Block in Splenectomy: A Randomized Trial

The aim of this study is to compare the analgesic effects of different doses of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant in external oblique intercostal plane block (EOIPB) in splenectomy.

External oblique intercostal plane block (EOIPB) was reported by Elsharkawy et al . It is a novel block, which has been described as an important modification of the fascial plane blocks that can consistently involve the upper lateral abdominal walls. In comparison to quadratus lumborum block (QLB) and erector spinae plane block (ESPB) , EOIPB has the benefit of being performed when the patient is supine. It also has an advantage over serratus intercostal plane block (SIPB) in that it produces greater analgesia throughout the midline of the abdomen.

Dexmedetomidine is used for sedation in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha 2- adrenoceptor agonist possessing sedative, anxiolytic, and analgesic properties without the development of respiratory depression . Several studies have shown that dexmedetomidine has an anesthetic sparing effect, which has led to its use as a general adjuvant for prolonging peripheral nerve block duration.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years.
• Both sexes.
• American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) physical status II-III.
• Scheduled for splenectomy.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Body mass index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m2
• History of abdominal surgery.
• Infection at the injection site.
• Drug abuse.
• Allergic reaction to local anesthetics.
• Coagulation abnormalities.
• Pregnancy.
• Severe cardiovascular problems.
• Diabetic neuropathy.