Efficacy of prophylactic dexamethasone in prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting

ObjectiveMany trials have been conducted with regard to the relative benefits of prophylactic anti-emetic interventions given alone or in combination, yet the results remain unknown. This study reviewed the efficacy of a single prophylactic dose of dexamethasone on postoperative nausea or vomiting (PONV) after abdominal hysterectomy.MethodsIn a prospective study of 100 women undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) under general anesthesia, the dexamethasone group (n = 50) received a single dose (8 mg) immediately after the operation, and the saline group (n = 50) received a dose of saline as a placebo, in addition to conventional management. The incidence of nausea, vomiting, the need for an anti-emetic and patient satisfaction with the management of PONV were evaluated during the first 24 postoperative hours.ResultsThe overall frequency of nausea during the initial postoperative 24 in the dexamethasone and saline groups were 12% and 18%, respectively, and vomiting was 10% and 16%, respectively (P = 0.001). However, there was a lower need for a rescue anti-emetic drugs in the dexamethasone group (18% vs 24%), but it was not statistically significant (P = 0.06).ConclusionThe results of this study indicate that a single prophylactic dose of dexamethasone after an operation can reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting.