Effects of dexmedetomidine on postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients after radical mastectomy

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of dexmedetomidine on postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in patients after radical mastectomy. MethodsA total of 100 patients undergoing radical mastectomy were randomly divided into two groups (n=50): a dexmedetomidine group (Group D) and a blank control group (Group C). Before anesthesia induction, 0.3 μg/kg dexmedetomidine and 10 ml normal saline were separately infused into patients. The VAS and Ramssay scores were recorded 1, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h after operation and the incidence of PONV was observed. ResultsGroup D showed a remarkable reduced incidence of PCNV than Group C within 48 h after operation (P<0.05). The VAS score of Group D was lower than that of Group C 1, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h after operation (P<0.05). No statistical difference was found as to Ramsay score between the two groups (P＞0.05). ConclusionsDexmedetomidine at 0.3 μg/kg can effectively prevent PONV in patients undergoing radical mastectomy.