Emergence Agitation Between Dexmedetomidine and Sevoflurane Anesthesia

Emergence Agitation in Pediatrics After Dexmedetomidine vs. Sevoflurane Anesthesia: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Emergence agitation is commonly encountered after receiving inhalation anesthesia. This distressing phenomenon carries risks that are harmful to patients, caregivers and medical personnel. Using total intravenous Dexmedetomidine, the investigators seek to reduce agitation and provide gentle emergence from anesthesia.

Surgery for pediatric cleft lip and palate repair often utilizes high dose opioids and inhaled anaesthesia, thereby causing postoperative complications such as desaturation and/or severe agitation after anesthesia. These complications are detrimental to the child, medical personnel and causes tremendous psychologic stress to parents. This study aims to decrease these complications through Dexmedetomidine, an Alpha-2 receptor agonist with anxiolytic, sympatholytic and analgetic properties. Devoid of respiratory depressant effect, it allows patients to maintain effective ventilation and reduce agitation, postoperatively. Its unique anesthetic property may shed light to provide safe anesthesia and gentle emergence to this young, vulnerable population.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients with weight ranging 5 kg - 25 kg
2. Patients with American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) Physical Status Classification 1 and 2

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients with any acquired congenital syndrome
2. Patients who are actively taking anti-seizure medications and/or has been diagnosed with epilepsy
3. Patients with functional and structural abnormalities of the heart, including arrythmias
4. Patients with liver disease