Comparison of propofol-N2O and thiopentone-N2O-halothane-anaesthesia in geriatric patients

Abstract

In this study we aimed to compare propofol-N2O anaesthesia and thiopentone-halothane-N2O anaesthesia. Sixty patients from ASA II-III-IV aged between 58-76 yr who undergo urological operations were taken into the study. Patients were divided randomly into two equal groups. In the first group 2 mg/kg propofol and 0.1 mg/kg vecuronium were given for induction and intubation. Anaesthesia maintenance was supplied with propofol infusion, in the first 30 minutes 10 mg/kg/h, in the second 30 minutes 5 mg/kg/h and 10 minutes before the end of the operation 2.5 mg/kg/h. In the second group, 5-6 mg/kg thiopentone and 0.1 mg/kg vecuronium were given for induction and intubation. Anaesthesia maintenance was supplied with 50% N2O+50% O2+1% halothane. Control, and intra-operative arterial pressures, heart rate and SaO2 were noted every 15 minutes. Times to awakening and orientation were determined. There were no statistically significant differences between arterial pressures, heart rate and SaO2 among groups (p > 0.05). Awakening and orientation time were earlier in the first group (5.3 ± 2.5 min and 6.4 ± 3.1 min) comparing to the second (10.4 ± 2.2 min and 11.6 ± 1.9 min), (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001). Regarding arterial pressures, heart rate and SaO2 differences both anaesthesia techniques were of equal quality but recovery was found better in the propofol + N2O anaesthesia group.