Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Postoperative Delirium in Patients Undergoing Awake Craniotomies: a Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a common complication occurring in 10% to 60% of patients, especially those undergoing awake craniotomies for tumor removal in the brain's frontal or temporal lobes. This study aims to explore the effect of dexmedetomidine on reducing POD in patients undergoing these awake brain surgeries, as its impact in this specific group is still unclear despite findings in other types of non-cardiac surgeries. The research is led by Beijing Tiantan Hospital and involves a randomized controlled trial design. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group receives dexmedetomidine through continuous infusion during surgery at a dose of 0.2 micrograms per kilogram per hour until the dura mater is closed, while the other group receives a placebo consisting of 0.9% saline administered at the same volume and rate. The study includes a quadruple masking method to ensure unbiased results. Throughout the study, participants will be monitored for the incidence of postoperative delirium over a five-day period following surgery. Researchers will collect data on delirium occurrence to evaluate the treatment effect. The total duration of participation may vary based on individual surgery and recovery timelines, with careful observation and safety monitoring conducted during the postoperative phase.

Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Postoperative Delirium After Awake Craniotomies