Propofol and Thiopentone as induction agents in Obstetric anesthesia - A comparative study

Background: In Cesarean, two anesthesia techniques are commonly used i.e. general and regional techniques. Regional anesthesia is most preferable under some circumstances. Commonly used induction agents include thiopental, Ketamine and propofol, depending on availability and the maternal clinical condition. Aim: Propofol 2.5 mg/kg was compared with Thiopentone 5 mg/kg as on induction agent for elective Cesarean section. Materials and methods: A total 103 healthy patients were included in an open randomized study, among whom 51 patients received Thiopentone and 52 received Propofol. These patients were unpremedicated, after induction dose the maintenance was similar for both groups. Results: Both Propofol and Thiopentone group produced a rapid and smooth induction of anesthesia with a low incidence of side effects. Diastolic blood pressure was lower in Propofol group during the induction to delivery interval. Other hemodynamic 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. Conclusion: Propofol appears to be a suitable alternative to Thiopentone as induction agent for Obstetric anesthesia.