Abstract:
Propofol 2.5mg/kg was compared with thiopentone 5mg/kg as an induction
agent for elective caesarean section. 206 healthy patients were included in an
open randomized study, among whom 104 patients received thiopentone and 102
received propofol. These patients were unpremedicated, after induction dose the
maintenance was similar for both groups. Both propofol and thiopentone group
produced a rapid and smooth induction of anaesthesia with a low incidence of
side effects. Diastolic blood pressure was lower in propofol group during the
induction to delivery interval. Other haemodynamic changes were similar for
both groups. Respiratory upsets occurred less frequently with propofol (7.8%)
than with thiopentone (22.5%), but propofol caused more pain (28.8%) on
injection compared to thiopentone. Recovery time was shorter after propofol as
evaluated by time to open eyes on commands. There was no significant neonatal
depression as assessed by Apgar score. Propofol appears to be a suitable
alternative to thiopentone as induction agent for obstetric anaesthesia.
