Dexmedetomidine as Adjuvant to Lower Doses of Intrathecal Bupivacaine for Lower Limb Orthopedic Surgeries.

Background: Dexmedetomidine, an α adrenergic agonist, has been found to be a useful adjuvant to local anesthetics. It has been found to produce satisfactory block with lower doses of spinal bupivacaine.

Aim: The aim of this study is to compare the difference in spinal block characteristics and hemodynamic effects of 7, 8, and 9 mg hyperbaric bupivacaine combined with 5 μg dexmedetomidine and to find out the optimum dose that would provide satisfactory block and hemodynamic stability for lower limb orthopedic surgeries.