Cervical plexus block for thyroid and parathyroid surgeries

Background and Aims: This prospective, randomized, double-blind study was done to evaluate the effect of addition of Dexmedetomidine as an adjunct, to Ropivacaine in superficial cervical plexus block for thyroid and parathyroid surgeries.
Materials and Methods: Hundred ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) class I and II patients undergoing thyroid surgeries were enrolled to receive either Ropivacaine with normal saline (Group 1) or Ropivacaine with Dexmedetomidine (Group 2) in cervical plexus block for postoperative analgesia at the end of surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. Duration of analgesia, number of topup analgesics, hemodynamic parameters, and any adverse events were monitored.
Results: Analgesia in the postoperative period was better in Group 2 with comparable side effects.
Conclusion: Hence, addition of Dexemedetomidine to Ropivacine in cervical plexus block significantly increases the duration of analgesia and patient comfort without increasing the side effects.