IJAR - Indian Journal of Applied Research

Selvi Annie Geeta; Pratheeba Durairaj

Volume : VI, Issue : XII, December - 2016

COMPARISON OF THIOPENTONE SODIUM VERSUS PROPOFOL AS INDUCTION ANAESTHETIC AGENT FOR ELECTROCONVULSIVE THERAPY

Selvi Annie Geeta, Pratheeba Durairaj

Abstract :

Background and goals of study: An ideal Anaesthetic agent for ECT should provide a smooth rapid induction, a rapid recovery and attenuation of the physiological effects of seizure activity. The aim of the study is to compare the anaesthetic agents, propofol and thiopentone sodium with regard to hemodynamic changes, seizure duration and recovery from anesthesia in patients undergoing modified electroconvulsive therapy (MECT) for treatment of depression or mania. Methods: Sixty patients (19–64 yrs) of ASA grade I and II patients diagnosed to have moderate to severe depression or mania in accordance with the international classification of disease 10th revision (ICD–10) who was prescribed ECT by the treating Psychiatrist were included in the study. The sixty patients in this study were randomly allocated into two groups, one of which received thiopentone sodium and the other propofol as the anesthetic agent for ECT. The hemodynamic parameters, duration of motor seizure, recovery profile and any complications were noted and compared. Results: The results of this study indicate that propofol is a safe induction agent for modified ECT with significant advantages over thiopentone with regard to haemodynamic changes, speed of induction and recovery from anaesthesia with little untoward complications associated with its use. While overall outcome was similar in patients treated with propofol and thiopentone, use of the former was associated with longer courses of treatment, shorter seizures and greater stimulus dosing used to ensure adequate seizures. Conclusion: Propofol appears to be a safe anaesthetic for ECT with minimal side effects.