Effects of Intravenous Induction Drugs on Intubation Conditions Using Rocuronium for Rapid Sequence Induction

Abstract

Background: We assessed the effect of intravenous induction agents on intubation conditions and hemodynamic changes when using rocuronium 0.7 mg/kg for rapid sequence induction. Methods: Sixty ASA class I or II patients undergoing elective surgery were divided into a thiopental group (5 mg/kg, n = 20), a propofol group (2 mg/kg, n = 20) and an etomidate group (0.2 mg/kg, n = 20). Anesthesia was induced with intravenous induction agents. After loss of consciousness, rocuronium 0.7 mg/kg was injected. Intubation was attempted at 60 seconds after rocuronium administration. Arterial blood pressure and heart rate were measured before induction, immediately after intubation, and 1, 3, 5, and 10 minutes after intubation. Intubation conditions were assessed by jaw relaxation, vocal cord movement, response to tracheal intubation, and were evaluated as excellent, good, fair, and poor. Results: Excellent intubation conditions were obtained 55% (n = 11) in the thiopental group, 60% (n = 12) in the propofol group, and 45% (n = 9) in the etomidate group. Systolic and diastolic arterial blood pressures were elevated after intubation in all three groups. But these changes were minimal in the propofol group. Conclusions: Intubation conditions were not significantly different after the intravenous injection of thiopental 5 mg/kg, propofol 2mg/kg, or etomidate 0.2 mg/kg when using rocuronium 0.7 mg/kg for rapid sequence induction.