Retrospective Analysis of Perioperative Dexmedetomidine Use in Retina Surgeries: Impact on Postanesthesia Care.

Abstract

Dexmedetomidine (Precedex®) has been linked to depressive hemodynamic effects and increased length of stay in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) when used in ambulatory phacoemulsification procedures. We aimed to determine the prevalence and impact of dexmedetomidine use during ambulatory vitreoretinal procedures. This retrospective cohort study involved 9,666 adult vitrectomies. Cases were divided into groups by anesthesia type: general anesthesia (GA) and monitored anesthesia care (MAC). For each group, various factors were compared between those who did and did not receive dexmedetomidine. Chi-squared and t tests were used for comparisons. Changes in mean arterial pressure in the MAC group were -1.69 ± 0.23 mmHg for no dexmedetomidine patients and -6.31 ± 0.39 mmHg for dexmedetomidine patients (P < 0.01). In the GA group, mean arterial pressure was -6.1 ± 0.35 mmHg for no dexmedetomidine patients and -11.18 ± 0.88 mmHg for dexmedetomidine patients (P < 0.01). PACU Phase II time in the MAC group was 36.93 ± 0.37 minutes and 40.67 ± 0.86 minutes for no dexmedetomidine and dexmedetomidine patients, respectively (P < 0.01). In the GA group, PACU Phase II time was 58.63 ± 0.95 minutes and 65.19 ± 2.38 minutes for no dexmedetomidine and dexmedetomidine patients, respectively (P < 0.01). Dexmedetomidine use in vitrectomies was associated with significant PACU delays. These delays may stem from adverse hemodynamic effects. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2024;55:86-91.].