In the aftermath of major surgery, many patients suffer from pain, fatigue, reduced general well-being, and cognitive dysfunction. Another common concern after major surgery is sleep impairment and there is little known about its effect on postoperative morbidity, especially postoperative fatigue and muscle function.
Dexmedetomidine has been shown to possibly improve postoperative sleep quality in critically ill patients. However, whether the administration of dexmedetomidine translates into reduced postoperative fatigue and/or weakness and improved enhanced recovery after surgery by improving sleep, is currently unknown.
The DEXSLEEP study will evaluate the effect of nocturnal administration of dexmedetomidine, as compared to placebo (i.e. no dexmedetomidine), on postoperative quality of recovery, postoperative fatigue and muscle weakness.
aged 60 years or older;
scheduled for thoracoscopic lung surgery.
lack of informed consent or inability to give informed consent;
≥ 2nd-degree atrioventricular block without pacemaker;
uncontrolled hypotension (blood pressure < 90/60 mmHg);
known hypersensitivity to dexmedetomidine or to any of the excipients;