Comparing the Effectiveness of Intra-Articular Injection of Bupivacaine, Dexmedetomidine Vs. 0.9% Saline on Pain Control after Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background: In different ways, drugs are administered to reduce postoperative analgesia after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The purpose of this study is to compare the dexmedetomidine (DEX) intra-articular injection with bupivacaine hydrochloride and sterile 0.9% saline administration following arthroscopic ACL reconstruction. Methods: Sixty cases who underwent ACL reconstruction were randomly divided into three groups. The first group received intra-articular DEX; the second group received intra-articular bupivacaine, and the final group received intra-articular 0.9% saline. Postoperative pain was measured by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Results: The mean VAS scores at 6 and 24 hours after surgery were lower in the bupivacaine group, compared to the other groups. Pain was more severe in the control group (0.9% saline), with higher VAS scores reported at 1, 6, and 24 hours after surgery. Conclusions: Bupivacaine has more significant effects than DEX in postoperative pain management after arthroscopic ACL reconstruction.