Post-operative analgesic efficacy of 0.25% ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine versus dexamethasone as an adjuvant in bilateral superficial cervical plexus block for thyroidectomy under general anaesthesia among the cardiac patients - A comparative randomize

Abstract

Objective: This randomized clinical study aimed to compare the post-operative analgesic efficacy of bilateral superficial cervical plexus block (SCPB) using 0.25% ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine versus dexamethasone as adjuvants in patients undergoing thyroidectomy under general anesthesia.
Methods: A total of 120 patients were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A (ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine) and Group B (ropivacaine with dexamethasone). Demographic characteristics were comparable between groups. Bilateral SCPB was performed using ultrasound guidance. Postoperative pain scores, time to first analgesic request, opioid consumption, adverse events, and patient satisfaction were assessed.
Results: Group A demonstrated significantly lower postoperative pain scores at all time points (p<0.001). Time to first analgesic request was prolonged in Group A (p<0.001), and total opioid consumption within 24 hours was lower (p<0.001). Adverse events were comparable between groups. Patient satisfaction scores favored Group A (p<0.001).
Conclusion: The addition of dexmedetomidine to ropivacaine in bilateral SCPB for thyroidectomy provided superior postoperative analgesia compared to dexamethasone. This combination offers a promising strategy for optimizing pain management in thyroid surgery.