Dexmedetomidine controls the hemodynamic manifestations of tourniquet pain

Dexmedetomidine is an α2-adrenergic agonist that is Food and Drug Administration-approved for the provision of short-term (less than 24 hours) sedation of adults during mechanical ventilation. Given its beneficial physiological effects, including sedation and anxiolysis, various applications have been reported in the perioperative period. We report the use of dexmedetomidine to control the hemodynamic consequences of tourniquet pain in three patients having either orthopedic or plastic surgical procedures requiring the use of tourniquets. In all cases, dexmedetomidine controlled the hemodynamic responses to tourniquet pain, including tachycardia and hypertension. The use of dexmedetomidine in this scenario is discussed, and its potential advantages over other agents, including opioids, are reviewed.