Comprehensive evaluation of clinical efficiency of dexamethasone as a supportive agent for bupivacaine in spinal anesthesia

Background and Aim: In order to enhance the overall performance and efficiency of bupivacaine, several additives have been experimented by various researchers. However, each adjunctive agent has its own disadvantages and limitations. This study was conducted to evaluate the clinical efficiency of dexamethasone as a supportive agent for bupivacaine in spinal anesthesia. Materials & Methods: Total 60 patients fulfilling as per the American Society of Anesthesiologists class I and class II of either sex aged between 21 to 60 years were included in the study. All patients were studied into two groups; Group 1 patients received combination of intrathecal bupivacaine (3ml, 15mg, 0.5%) plus dexamethasone (2ml, 8mg). Group 2 patients received intrathecal bupivacaine (3ml, 15mg, 0.5%) plus saline (2ml). Spinal anesthesia was administered with standard manner at lumber space. The early onset of anesthesia along with duration of block and assessment of pain were noted carefully to investigate further. Statistical Analysis & Results: Statistical analysis was completed by SPSS software wherein P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Out of total studied 60 patients, maximum 31 patients were in the age range of 21-30 years. Age range of 41-50 years confirmed only 6 subjects. P value was highly significant.