Etomidate vs. propofol to carry out suspension laryngoscopies

Patients about to undergo a suspension laryngoscopy were randomly assigned to one of two groups (n = 10). They were given either etomidate 1 mg kg-1 followed by 1 mg kg-1 h-1, or propofol 2.5 mg kg-1 followed by 9 mg kg-1 h-1. Alfentanil 10 micrograms kg-1 was given to provide analgesia with a further half dose if necessary. Duration of apnoea, quality of anaesthesia, times between stopping hypnotic administration and the moment when the patients opened their eyes, gave their name, date of birth and the day's date were noted. Heart rate, blood pressures, respiratory frequency and blood gases were noted before induction, before suspension and when hypnotic infusion was stopped. Clinical tolerance was good, the duration of surgery, apnoea and quality of anaesthesia were the same for both groups. Blood pressure was less depressed by etomidate, but ventilatory frequency was higher. Recovery was significantly faster after propofol. Propofol is recommended for patients who require good post-operative cooperation (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and etomidate for those who are haemodynamically compromised.