Comparative study on effects of dexmedetomidine and dexamethasone on the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery

Objective:To compare the safety and efficacy of dexmedetomidine and dexamethasone for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting(PONV)in patients scheduled for laparoscopic surgery.Methods:A total of 86 female patients were prospectively administered dexmedetomidine 1μg/kg i.v.(the group A,n=43),and dexamethasone 8 mg i.v.(the group B,n=43).The two groups were compared in treatment response,hemodynamic changes,and Numerical Analog Scale(NAS).Besides,the relation of PONV with patient baseline characteristics in the perioperative period was determined as well.Results:Patients in group A had lower PONV scores(t=3.1,P<0.002),less needs for rescue anti-emetics(χ2=0.47,P<0.001),and decreased intraoperative heart rate(t=9.72,P<0.001)and mean arterial pressure(t=7.58,P<0.001)compared to that of group B.Group A reported lower NAS than group B(t=2.66,P<0.001).In addition,we found no relationship between PONV score and rescue anti-emetic requirement,age,or body mass index(P=0.96,P=0.60,P=0.28,respectively).Conclusion:Dexmedetomidine could be used as an effective antiemetic in laparoscopic surgeries,with better efficacy than dexamethasone.Dexmedetomidine not only can reduce PONV but also is effective in postoperative analgesia.