Effect of Nebulised Dexmedetomidine on Hemodynamic Response to Intubation

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the role of nebulized dexmedetomidine in attenuating the stress response to laryngoscopy and intubation and to observe any adverse effects of the drug such as cough, bradycardia, hypotension, and dose-sparing result of propofol. Methods: A prospective and observational study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital for 12 months. A total of 62 patients (ASA 1 and 2) in the age group of 18–65 years scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia received either nebulized dexmedetomidine 10 min before intubation (Group A) or Inj. Lignocaine 90 s before intubation (Group B). Post-intubation hemodynamic parameters were compared in both groups. Data collected remained analyzed using SPSS version 16. Results: Both groups were comparable with respect to demographic variables. Nebulization with Inj. Dexmedetomidine showed statistically significant blunting of hemodynamic response in the 1st min following intubation, in Group A. This was seen in the variables such as heart rate, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial blood pressure. There was no significant difference in the systolic blood pressure at all points of time. Furthermore, there was no significant change in the variables at 5 and 10 min following intubation. There was a significant decrease in the dose of propofol required for induction in Group A compared to Group B. Conclusion: Nebulization with dexmedetomidine before laryngoscopy and intubation significantly reduced the hemodynamic response to intubation, immediately after intubation.