Dexmedetomidine is a highly selective α2-adrenergic receptor agonist. Recently, it is been used as an off-label drug for prolonging peripheral nerve blocks and postoperative analgesia. Additionally, its opioid-sparing effect (without significant respiratory depression) makes it a suitable adjunct drug candidate for opioid-tolerant postoperative patients who are at risk of hypoventilation. The present case report highlights such a case of off-label use of dexmedetomidine for an opioid-tolerant patient after spine fusion surgery.
Case A 51-year-old male with a history of substance (heroin and cocaine) use was diagnosed with terminal right renal cell carcinoma. The carcinoma had metastasized to the lymph nodes (retroperitoneal, mediastinal, and hilar), lung, and vertebrae, including thoracic 7/ 9/10, lumbar pedicle 5, and sacrum. His medical history was also significant for anxiety (for…
