The Effect of Nocturnal Dexmedetomidine on Postoperative Sleep Quality and Fatigue After Major Surgery in Elderly Patients: DEXSLEEP Study

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.

NCT Number	NCT06480539
Lead Sponsor	Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg
Conditions	Postoperative Fatigue, Postoperative Sleep Disturbances, Surgical Stress Response
Enrollment	102 participants
Start Date	2024-06-06
Primary Completion	2026-04-01 (estimated)
Study Completion	2026-04 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-04-08