METHODS/DESIGN: We will perform a parallel two-arm, randomized (1:1), double-blind, placebo-controlled, single-center trial. Adults (≥18 years) scheduled for primary partial or total
thyroidectomy because of a benign disease will be eligible for inclusion. The participants will be randomized to receive a single, intravenous preoperative dose of either 8 mg of
dexamethasone in 2 ml saline (treatment group) or saline alone (placebo group). All the patients will receive a bilateral superficial
cervical plexus block and standardized
anesthesia. The primary outcome will be the incidence of
postoperative nausea and vomiting. A total of 152 patients will be recruited, providing 80% power to detect a 50% reduction in the incidence of
postoperative nausea and vomiting. Any patients who require
opioid treatment will be excluded from the per-protocol analysis.
DISCUSSION: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01189292.