Comparative evaluation of dexmedetomidine and lidocaine in postoperative analgesia in open cholecystectomy a double blind study

Gallstone disease (cholelithiasis) is a major health problem in adult population. Open cholecystectomy is routinely performed in elective operation theatres. Postoperative pain is major cause of morbidity in postoperative period and it affects multiple organ systems. This study is designed to evaluate the effects of intravenous infusion of dexmedetomidine vs lidocaine for postoperative analgesia. Double blind randomized study will be performed on 80 patients with age 20-60 years ASA (American Society of Anaesthesiologist) grade I and II for open cholecystectomy under general anaesthesia. Patients in group L will receive Intravenous lidocaine 1.5mg/kg body weight followed by Infusion of 2mg/kg/hr. In group D, patients will receive 1mcg/kg dexmedetomidine followed by infusion of 0.4mcg/kg/hr. Patients will be kept in post anaesthesia care unit (PACU) for 24 hrs and pain will be assessed at regular intervals using visual analogue scale (VAS). Vitals will also be monitored at regular intervals. Post operative consumption of diclofenac and tramadol will be noted.The data will then be compiled, tabulated and statistically analyzed with latest software.