Comparative study between thiopental and propofol in short-duration anesthesia
Monedero Rodríguez, P.; Panadero Sánchez, A.; García Pedrajas, F.; Carrera Hueso, J.; Catalá Bauset, J.C.; Arroyo Carreras, J.L.
Revista Espanola de Anestesiologia y Reanimacion 38(3): 153-155
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0034-9356 PMID: 1961958 Document Number: 386121
In a randomized study, 80 healthy unpremedicated female patients were included. For short gynaecological procedures (curettage) they were anaesthetized with either propofol 2 mg/kg (n = 40) or thiopentone 5 mg/kg (n = 40) in combination with nitrous oxide/oxygen (1/1). Supplementary doses of propofol (25 mg) or thiopentone (50 mg) were given when necessary during the procedure. Propofol caused a significant fall in arterial blood pressure (greater than thiopentone in diastolic pressure) and a decrease in heart rate (thiopentone did not change heart rate). Discomfort on injection was similar in both groups. Recovery times were shorter in propofol group: Patients opened their eyes at 1.3 minutes, were awake at 2.2 minutes and could seat with no help at 5.2 minutes. In the thiopentone group, there was a greater incidence of nausea. Propofol was associated with euphoria, "clear-headedness" and pleasant dreams more than thiopentone. We conclude that propofol is a good alternative to thiopentone in short operative procedures.