Dexamethasone in the Prevention of Post-spinal Paralytic Ileus After Cesarean Section, Does it Make a Difference: A Randomized Controlled Study

What this Trial Is About

Postoperative ileus is a common and challenging condition that occurs after surgery requiring general anesthesia, including cesarean sections. It involves a slowdown or stoppage of normal intestinal movement, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, distention, nausea, vomiting, delayed gas and stool passage, and difficulty eating. This condition can increase the risk of complications, prolong hospital stays, and add to healthcare costs. Researchers are exploring ways to improve recovery of gastrointestinal function after surgery, focusing on factors like nervous system regulation, inflammation, hormones, and opioid use. Minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques help reduce surgical trauma and may influence recovery. This study compares the effects of two treatments given just before spinal anesthesia in women undergoing cesarean section. One group receives an intravenous dose of 8 mg dexamethasone diluted in saline, while the other group receives a placebo of 5 ml normal saline. Both treatments are administered immediately before spinal anesthesia. The study uses a randomized, triple-blind design to evaluate if dexamethasone can help prevent postoperative ileus. Participants are women aged 18 to 40 years with full-term single pregnancies scheduled for cesarean sections under spinal anesthesia. The main outcome measured is the time to first passage of gas or stool within 24 hours after surgery. Other aspects include monitoring for symptoms of ileus and recovery progress. The study follows participants through the early postoperative period to assess gastrointestinal function and the safety of the treatments being tested.

Dexamethasone in the Prevention of Post-spinal Paralytic Ileus After Cesarean Section