Intraoperative Infusion of Precedex to Reduce Length of Stay After Lumbar Spine Fusion
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2012-12-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Major lumbar spine surgery causes inflammation, soreness and swelling that can delay
discharge from the hospital. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) has been shown to have anti-inflammatory
effects. This study will evaluate whether DEX can help get patients out of the hospital
faster after major spine surgery by reducing the inflammation associated with the procedure
itself. A separate part of the study will evaluate the blood levels of some specific
indicators of inflammation called cytokines. Measuring cytokines before and after surgery
will aid in determining if DEX has altered the inflammatory response.