Efficacy of Prophylactic Clonidine in Preventing Postanesthetic Shivering in Laparoscopicassisted Vaginal Hysterectomy

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective Postanesthetic shivering occurs in up to 60% of patients following general anesthesia and is associated with deleterious consequences. Various drugs have been used to prevent or treat postanesthetic shivering, but the ideal one has not yet been found. In this study, we have studied the efficacy of prophylactic clonidine in preventing postanesthetic shivering. Meterials and methods Sixty ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) I and II patients scheduled for laparoscopicassisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) were randomly allocated to receive either clonidine 2 μg.kg—1 (group C, n = 30) or normal saline (group S, n = 30) intravenously at the time of vault closure. Core body temperature (nasopharyngeal) along with NIBP, heart rate and ECG were monitored at regular intervals. The severity of shivering was assessed according to a five-point scale (0 to 4). Results Significantly less shivering occurred in clonidine group 5 (17%) compared to normal saline group 20 (67%). The recovery time (between end of anesthesia and extubation) was significantly longer in the clonidine group (12.5 ± 4.3 minutes) compared with normal saline group (8.0 ± 4.5 minutes). Mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate were significantly lower in the clonidine group compared with saline group. Conclusion Prophylactic clonidine is effective in the prevention of postanesthetic shivering. Following clonidine administration, the recovery time was prolonged and incidence of bradycardia and hypotension were more than placebo. How to cite this article Chattopadhyay S, Goswami S, Rudra A. Efficacy of Prophylactic Clonidine in Preventing Postanesthetic Shivering in Laparoscopic-assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2013;5(3): 120-123.