Comparison between two different propofol dosage regimens for insertion of cuffed oro-pharyngeal airway

Conditions for insertion of the cuffed oropharyngeal airway (COPA) were assessed following two different dosage regimens of propofol: group I (n = 40): 1.5 mg.kg-1; group II (n = 40): 2.5 mg.kg-1. The insertion conditions were evaluated by using a scoring system (-, + and +2) of gag and cough reflexes. The necessary use of additional dosage of propofol and the duration of post-induction apnea were also recorded. There were no significant differences between the two groups in the incidence of coughing, gagging and the additional usage of induction agent. The mean (+/- SD) duration of apnea was significantly longer in the high dose group: 9 +/- 6 min vs 5 +/- 7 min (p = 0.007). Low dose of propofol combines efficient insertion conditions with decreased length of post-induction apnea.