Key result
Perioperative alpha-2 adrenergic agonists reduced overall mortality (RR 0.66; 95% CI 0.44-0.98; P=0.04) and myocardial ischaemia, but significantly increased perioperative hypotension and bradycardia.
Why the study?
Do perioperative alpha-2 adrenergic agonists reduce mortality and cardiac complications in patients undergoing surgery?
Systematic Review (n=4,578)
Do perioperative alpha-2 adrenergic agonists reduce mortality and cardiac complications in patients undergoing surgery?
Relative Risk: 0.66 (95% CI 0.44–0.98)
p-value: p=0.04
Perioperative alpha-2 adrenergic agonists may reduce mortality and myocardial ischemia, particularly in vascular surgery, but they significantly increase the risk of hypotension and bradycardia.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
May reduce mortality yet increase hypotension and bradycardia; confirms benefit but challenges routine use pending targeted trials.
Wijeysundera et al. (2009) conducted a systematic review in Patients undergoing surgery (n=4,578). Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists vs. Placebo or non-alpha-2 adrenergic agonists was evaluated on Mortality (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.98, p=0.04). Perioperative alpha-2 adrenergic agonists reduced overall mortality (RR 0.66; 95% CI 0.44-0.98; P=0.04) and myocardial ischaemia, but significantly increased perioperative hypotension and bradycardia.
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