Effects of Perioperative Intravenous Dexamethasone on Pain in Out Patient Knee Surgery

The purpose of the study is to determine the opiate sparing effects of intravenously
administered dexamethasone in outpatient knee surgery. Dexamethasone is a glucocorticoid
with well known antiemetic effects. However, the analgesic effects of dexamethasone have
not been adequately researched. Following surgery, patients are typically discharged home
with PO opiates to manage post-operative pain. The investigators believe that by using
Visual Analog scales for Pain the investigators can show that a single dose of dexamethasone
can reduce pain scales and opiate consumption post-operatively, on POD 0 and POD 1 when
compared to placebo.