Effect Of Preoperative Single Dose 8Mg Intravenous Dexamethasone On Postoperative Pain And Blood Sugar Levels In Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy A Double Blind Randomised Control Trial

Despite advances in pain management, many surgical patients still experience moderate to severe pain, affecting 20-40% of those undergoing complex procedures such as spinal, abdominal, and orthopaedic surgeries. This pain can lead to delayed recovery, increased morbidity, and the risk of chronic pain. Multimodal analgesia is preferred for acute pain, but opioids remain the primary treatment for severe pain, despite their potential for adverse effects and addiction

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), the standard treatment for large renal calculi, offers less invasiveness and quicker recovery compared to open surgery. However, significant postoperative pain from nephrostomy tubes, which are inserted for drainage and access, can lead to prolonged hospital stays and patient dissatisfaction. Pain stems from visceral and somatic sources related to the surgical site and tube placement

Glucocorticoids, known for their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, have shown promise in reducing postoperative pain in other contexts. Dexamethasone, in particular, has been studied for its potential analgesic benefits when given as a single preoperative dose. However, results have been inconsistent, and concerns about long-term side effects of glucocorticoids persist

Further research is needed to determine their efficacy and safety in the context of postoperative pain management. In this study we are evaluating the effect of intravenous dexamethasone on postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy