Comparative study of analgesic effects of ropivacaine and dexmedetomidine with that of ropivacaine and fentanyl for lower abdominal and lower limb orthopaedic surgeries

Introduction: The anesthetic choices for lengthy lower limbs orthopedic procedures may comprise general anesthesia and limited types of regional techniques such as epidural, continuous spinal, or combined nerve blocks. Ropivacaine is a long-acting amide local anesthetic with a potentially improved safety profile when compared to bupivacaine. Dexmedetomidine and fentanyl are two such adjuvant drugs that have been used in combination with bupivacaine or ropivacaine to enhance the analgesic efficacy of the drugs and that facilitate early achievement and prolongation of block. Material and Methods: This is a Comparative, prospective and single study of postoperative epidural analgesia was done in 140 patients, posted for elective surgeries selected randomly, after approval from Ethical committee, conducted over a period of 6 months. Patients of either sex with age between 18 to 60 years. ASA grades I and II. Elective lower limb Orthopaedic and lower Abdominal surgery were included. Patients` refusal, Spinal deformities. Bleeding disorders, Neurological deficit. Local skin infection around the site of needle insertion and Allergic to local anaesthetic drugs were excluded. Results: A total of 140 patients of either sex selected in this study.