Dexmedetomidine Use in Suprazygomatic Maxillary Nerve Blocks for Pediatric Adenotonsillectomy Pain Control
The suprazygomatic maxillary nerve (SZMN) block is a well-established, safe and effective regional technique for pain management following cleft palate procedures. However, it has not been studied for patients undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T\&A) procedures. The goal of this study is to determine whether the SZMN block can be utilized to improve pain control and decrease morbidity in pediatric patients undergoing T\&A. An additional goal will be to determine whether the use of dexmedetomidine as a local anesthetic adjunct can prolong the analgesic effects of the SZMN block to cover the entire duration of pain experienced.
• Ages 6 months - 18 years
• Give consent/parental consent to participate in study
• Patients undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy