ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the efficacy of caudal block with dexmedetomidine mixed with lidocaine for management of perioperative analgesia in children. Methods Thirty pediatric patients, aged 2-6 yr, weighing 8-23 kg, scheduled for elective unilateral high ligation of hernial sac, were equally and randomly assigned into either lidocaine group ( group L ) or dexmedetomidine mixed with lidocaine group ( group DL) using a random number table. Each patient received a single caudal dose of 1% lidocaine 1 ml∕kg in group L. Each patient received a single caudal dose of 1% lidocaine 1 ml∕kg mixed with dexmedetomidine 1 μg∕kg in group DL. Postoperative analgesia was assessed using FLACC scale. When FLACC score ≥4, ibuprofen suspension 10 mg∕kg was given orally. The consumption of ibuprofen was recorded within 8 h after operation. The onset time of caudal block and duration of analgesia were recorded, and adverse effects were observed. Results Compared with group L, the onset time of caudal block was significantly shortened, the duration of analgesia was prolonged, and the requirement for ibuprofen was decreased in group L. There was no significant difference in adverse effects between the two groups. Conclusion Addition of dexmedetomidine 1 μg∕kg to caudal lidocaine can significantly optimize the efficacy of caudal block with lidocaine alone for the management of perioperative analgesia in children.