"The effect of intramuscular dexmedetomidine versus oral gabapentin premedication on the emergence agitation after rhinoplasty". A prospective, randomized, double-blind controlled trial.

[BACKGROUND] Emergence agitation EA is a state of confusion and harmful aggressiveness during recovery. It is a common complication after rhinoplasty, with risk of trauma, bleeding, and hemodynamic instability. Dexmedetomidine and gabapentin premedication could improve the quality of recovery after rhinoplasty.

[METHODS] One hundred fifty-three participants (ASA I-II, both sexes and age 18-40 years) scheduled for rhinoplasty were randomized into three groups. Group C didn't receive premedication, Group D received intramuscular (IM) dexmedetomidine, and Group G received oral gabapentin. The degree of EA by Riker sedation-agitation scale (RSAS) during recovery, pain severity, and adverse events recorded.

[RESULTS] The results showed statistically significant differences in EA scores with the lowest values in group D (p-value 0.002). Moreover, the incidence of EA was 17.6% (9/51) in Group D, 41.2% (21/51) in Group G, and 56.9% (29/51) in Group C with P value < 0.001 and significant differences in VAS score at 4, 8, and 12 h with the highest median (range) values in group C 4(3-6) in comparison to group D 2(1-3) and group G 2(1-3) and p-value < 0.001; no significant differences in adverse events.

[CONCLUSIONS] IM dexmedetomidine premedication was more efficient than gabapentin in the reduction of the emergence agitation incidence, severity, and postoperative pain scores after rhinoplasty in adults.

[CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ID] NCT05626998 on 25/11/2022.