A Study to Evaluate Effect of Ephedrine on Intubating Conditions and Haemodynamic Parameters using Low Dose Rocuronium with Different Induction Agents

Background: There has been a search for an ideal muscle relaxant which might provide ideal intubating conditions in ultra short duration with minimal side effects. Objective: To compare the intubating conditions and haemodynamic response one minute after rocuronium (0.6 mg/kg) administration, using three different induction techniques i.e. thiopentone, propofol and propofol with ephedrine. Materials and Methods: Seventy five adult patients were randomized into one of three groups: groups-A and B received thiopentone and propofol respectively and group -C received propofol with ephedrine. All groups received rocuronium 0.6mg/kg following administration of their respective drugs. Tracheal intubation was performed one minute later. An experienced anaesthesiologist assessed the intubating conditions. Haemodynamic parameters were recorded before induction of anaesthesia, post induction and one and three minutes after intubation. Results: Patient’s characteristics and baseline haemodynamic parameters were comparable in all three groups. Intubating conditions were significantly better in propofol-ephedrine group as compared to other two groups. Following intubation, rise in heart rate and blood pressure was more marked in propofol-ephedrine group as compared to other groups. Conclusion: Rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg provides better intubating conditions at one minute with propofol-ephedrine combination as compared to propofol alone or thiopentone.