EFFECT OF PREINDUCTION DEXAMETHASONE 8 MG VS 16 MG FOR RELIEF OF POSTOPERATIVE PAIN AND NAUSEA AND VOMITING IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING SURGERY UNDER GENERAL ANAESTHESIA

Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the impact of administering 8 mg versus 16 mg of dexamethasone intravenously prior to induction of general anesthesia on postoperative pain, nausea, and vomiting (PONV). Outcomes assessed included visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for pain, occurrence of PONV, and the need for additional analgesics or antiemetics postoperatively.

Methodology: A randomized prospective study was planned where 68 patients aged 18 to 65, who were in excellent health (ASAI and II) and needed elective surgeries with general anesthesia and endotracheal intubation, were observed. Participants were randomly divided into two equal groups (n=34) using the envelope method. Group D1 received 8 mg of IV dexamethasone, while Group D2 received 16 mg IV, both administered before anesthesia induction. Postoperative monitoring included assessment of pain via VAS, episodes of nausea and vomiting, and documentation of any supplementary analgesic or antiemetic usage.

Results:The occurrence of PONV was notably lower in Group D2 compared to Group D1 (11.8% vs. 32.4%, respectively; p = 0.041). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups regarding immediate postoperative pain scores or the requirement for additional pain relief or antiemetic medications.

Conclusion:Administering 16 mg of dexamethasone intravenously before anesthesia induction appears to be more effective than 8 mg in minimizing early postoperative nausea and vomiting. Nevertheless, both doses showed comparable effects on postoperative pain and the need for further analgesic or antiemetic intervention.

Categories: General Surgery, Anesthesiology, Pain Management.