Effect of dexmedetomidine on lung function and prognosis a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of dexmedetomidine on lung function and prognosis.Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library from inception to January 30, 2020 following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement guidelines. Randomized controlled trials of dexmedetomidine associated with lung function were assessed. The primary outcomes are pH, PaO2, PaCO2, respiratory index (RI) and time to extubation. The secondary outcomes are PaO2/FiO2, length of hospital stay and events of pulmonary complications.Results: 17 trials of 924 patients were included. Compared with placebo group, dexmedetomidine group had higher PaO2 (MD: 10.96; 95% CI: from 0.77 to 21.15; p=0.04) and PaO2/FiO2 (MD: 30.77; 95% CI: from 19.11 to 42.43; p<0.00001). The dexmedetomidine group had lower PaCO2 (MD: -0.88; 95% CI: from -1.66 to -0.11; p=0.002) and shorter length of hospital stay (MD: -1.19; 95% CI: from -2.21 to -0.16; p=0.02). The dexmedetomidine group had lower occurrence of pulmonary complications (RR: 0.28; 95% CI: from 0.09 to 0.82; p=0.02). However, there is no significant difference in pH, respiratory index and extubation time.Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine has better influence on lung function and prognosis.