Dexmedetomidine-Induced Massive Diuresis in a Patient Undergoing Spinal Fusion Surgery: A Case Report and Synthesis of the Literature

A A Pract. 2019 Feb 15;12(4):112-114. doi: 10.1213/XAA.0000000000000860.

Abstract

Dexmedetomidine is an α2-adrenergic sedative-hypnotic medication used as an adjunct to general anesthesia. While experimental studies in animals have demonstrated a mild diuretic effect of dexmedetomidine, only recently have case reports described dexmedetomidine-induced diuresis in humans. Interestingly, the majority of such cases have involved patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery. Here, we report a case of a 30-year-old woman undergoing cervical spinal fusion surgery who experienced a massive diuresis starting 30 minutes after receiving dexmedetomidine intravenous infusion. We discuss the differential diagnosis and synthesize the current literature on this rare effect.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cervical Vertebrae / surgery
  • Dexmedetomidine / adverse effects*
  • Diuresis / drug effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / adverse effects*
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Spinal Fusion*

Substances

  • Hypnotics and Sedatives
  • Dexmedetomidine