The investigators will conduct a prospective randomized double blind study comparing methadone plus methadone and intraoperative dexmedetomidine in multi-level spine surgery in two randomized groups. The investigators plan to document the intraoperative opioid requirements, time to first dose of opioids postoperatively and total opioid consumption in the first 24, 48 and 72 hours. The incidence of intra and postoperative complications will be assessed.
Patients presenting for thoracic and/or lumbar spine surgery with neuromonitoring (MEP/SSEP/EMG)will be recruited. Standard anesthesia monitoring will be performed. Randomized to a placebo or dexmedetomidine arm. Both groups will receive methadone 0.2 mg/kg ideal weight after induction of anesthesia. The placebo/dexmedetomidine will be loaded at 1 mcg/kg over 20 minutes and then a continuous infusion of 0.5 mcg/kg/h for the duration of the procedure. Intraoperative analgesia will be provided with fentanyl and dilaudid per the anesthesia team. Upon closure the study drug will be terminated. Patients will be followed up for 72 hours after surgery. Total opiate consumption and visual analogue scale ratings will be documented. Intra and postoperative inotrope/pressor requirements will be recorded.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
QUADRUPLE
Enrollment
142
In the intervention arm dexmedetomidine at a dose of 1 mcg/kg over 20 mins followed by an infusion of 0.5 mcg/kg/h for the duration of the surgery.
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, Virginia, United States
Opiate consumption
We will measure total opiate consumption 72 hours post surgery
Time frame: 72 hours post surgery
Pain Scores on the Visual Analog Scale
We will measure pain scores on the Visual analogue scale after surgery
Time frame: 72 hours
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