Comparative Evaluation of Intrathecal Buprenorphine Versus Dexmedetomidine as Adjuvants to Hyperbaric Ropivacaine in Infraumbilical Surgeries: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Hyperbaric ropivacaine provides effective spinal anaesthesia, and adjuvants like dexmedetomidine and buprenorphine may enhance its efficacy. Objective: To compare the intrathecal effects of buprenorphine and dexmedetomidine with hyperbaric ropivacaine.

Methods: Ninety ASA I–II patients (aged 20–60 years) undergoing infraumbilical surgeries were randomized into two groups. Group B received 0.75% hyperbaric ropivacaine with 60 µg buprenorphine, while Group D received 0.75% hyperbaric ropivacaine with 5 µg dexmedetomidine. We compared onset and duration of sensory/motor blocks, time to rescue analgesia, and side effects.

Results: Group D had significantly faster onset of sensory (2.3±0.5 min vs 3.2±0.6 min) and motor blocks (3.0±0.4 min vs 4.1±0.5 min), and longer duration of sensory (503.2±38.5 min vs 323.7±32.4 min) and motor blocks (441.7±35.2 min vs 297.1±30.6 min). Time to rescue analgesia was longer in Group D (520.5±40.1 min vs 335.4±34.3 min). Side effects were fewer in Group D.

Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine is a superior intrathecal adjuvant to buprenorphine with hyperbaric ropivacaine for infraumbilical surgeries.