Comparison of induction, intubation and recovery characteristics of halothane + propofol V/S sevoflurane + propofol in children undergoing adenotonsillectomy

Abstract

Purpose: General anaesthesia for oral surgeries in paediatric patients is always challenging for an anaesthesiologist. Aim was to compare halothane+propofol and sevoflurane+propofol in paediatric patients undergoing adenotonsillectomy without muscle relaxant. Method: In a double blind manner, eighty patients of 3- 10 years were premedicated with inj. Atropine and randomly divided into two groups of forty each. In Group A, priming was done with 50% oxygen+50% nitrous oxide+4% halothane for 1 minute, after loss of eye lash reflex and centralisation of pupil intravenous cannulation done. Inj. midazolom, lignocaine and Propofol were given and trachea was intubated. Maintenance was done with 1-2% halothane+ nitrous oxide+ oxygen and continuous propofol infusion. Similar technique was used in group B except for priming done with sevoflurane 7% and maintenance with 2-3%. Both groups were compared for induction, intubating conditions, haemodynamics and emergence characteristics. Results: Induction was rapid in group B as time for loss of eye lash reflex and centralisation of pupil was less in group B (21.88±12.6 &114.40±28.8 seconds) as compared to group A (33.05±4.0 & 140.05±12.1 sec) p<0.001. Intubating conditions were excellent but mean intubation time was less in group B as compared to group A p<0.001. Heart rate and blood pressure remained on lower side in group A. Emergence was significantly rapid in group B. No side effect or complications were noted. Conclusion: Both groups provided excellent intubating conditions but sevoflurane+propofol group was better as it provided faster induction and rapid recovery from anaesthesia with more stable haemodynamics as compared to Halothane+propofol group.