Randomised, parallel-group prevention trial (n=80) testing a single low-dose IV esketamine infusion (0.3 mg/kg over 40 min) versus saline to prevent postoperative depression after cardiac surgery.
This randomised, quadruple-blind, parallel-group study evaluates whether a single subanaesthetic intravenous esketamine infusion (0.3 mg/kg, infused over 40 minutes before anaesthesia) prevents or mitigates postoperative depressive symptoms in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
Primary purpose is prevention; outcomes include incidence and severity of postoperative depression assessed by qualified psychiatric clinicians with follow-up assessments. Estimated enrollment is 80 participants.
Low-dose esketamine infusion 40 minutes before anaesthesia induction.
0.3 mg/kg diluted in 100 ml saline, infused over 40 minutes before induction.
Normal saline infusion as placebo comparator.
Normal saline infusion (40 ml) over 40 minutes before induction.