Impact of dexamethasone on postoperative inflammatory markers and recovery outcomes in elderly patients undergoing open lumbar surgery.

ABSTRACT: The perioperative use of dexamethasone offers anti-inflammatory benefits, but its effects in elderly patients undergoing open lumbar surgery are unclear. In this randomized, double-blind study, individuals aged 65 years and older received a preoperative intravenous dose of dexamethasone (0.15 mg kg^-1) or placebo. Among 120 enrolled participants, 107 completed all study assessments. On postoperative day 1, plasma C-reactive protein levels were significantly lower with dexamethasone than with placebo (median 10.9 vs. 18.2 mg/L; p < 0.001; median difference 7.1 mg/L, 95% CI 3.5-12.4). Wound drainage was also reduced (median 80 vs. 132.5 mL; p < 0.001; median difference 52.5 mL, 95% CI 32.5-80.0). Patients receiving dexamethasone showed lower early pain scores, improve

SUBMITTER: Zhang H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12723133 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature