DEXDES Trial: Dexmedetomidine-Desflurane Combination in Laparoscopic Colectomy

Dexmedetomidine, a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, has sedative and analgesic properties without significant respiratory depression. Desflurane, a volatile anesthetic with low blood-gas solubility, allows rapid induction and emergence. Combining these two agents may provide anesthetic-sparing effects and promote faster postoperative recovery under ERAS protocols. This study will enroll 40 adult patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colectomy at Tam Anh General Hospital, Vietnam. Participants will be randomized into two groups: Dexmedetomidine + Desflurane versus Desflurane alone. The primary outcome is average Desflurane consumption per hour, with secondary outcomes including hemodynamic parameters, Fentanyl use, emergence quality, and incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting.

Inclusion criteria

• Age 18-65 years
• ASA Physical Status I-II
• Elective laparoscopic colectomy
• Written informed consent provided

Exclusion criteria

• Severe cardiac, hepatic, or renal disease
• COPD or bronchial asthma
• Chronic opioid or psychotropic medication use
• Atrioventricular block (grade II-III), sick sinus syndrome
• Significant intraoperative bleeding or hemodynamic instability