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Diazepam and flunitrazepam as induction agents for cardiac surgical operations
Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica
|January 1, 1977
Summary
This study compared diazepam and flunitrazepam as anesthesia induction agents for cardiac surgery patients. Both drugs caused similar cardiovascular and respiratory effects, with no significant differences in anesthetic onset or induction quality compared to thiopentone.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Anesthesia induction agents are critical in cardiac surgery.
- Diazepam and flunitrazepam are benzodiazepines used for sedation and anesthesia.
- Comparing their efficacy and safety in cardiac surgery patients is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare diazepam and flunitrazepam as equipotent induction agents in premedicated cardiac surgery patients.
- To evaluate cardiovascular and respiratory effects, onset time, and induction quality.
Main Methods:
- Equipotent doses of diazepam and flunitrazepam were administered to premedicated patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
- Cardiovascular parameters (arterial blood pressure) and respiratory parameters (Paco2, Pao2) were monitored.
- Onset time of anesthesia and quality of induction were assessed.
Main Results:
- Both diazepam and flunitrazepam induced a significant decrease in arterial blood pressure.
- A rise in Paco2 and a fall in Pao2 were observed with both agents.
- No significant differences were found between diazepam and flunitrazepam regarding cardiovascular/respiratory depression, onset time, or induction quality.
- No significant differences were noted when compared to thiopentone induction.
Conclusions:
- Diazepam and flunitrazepam are comparable as induction agents in premedicated cardiac surgery patients.
- Both agents exhibit similar hemodynamic and respiratory effects.
- Higher doses of diazepam (0.2-0.6 mg/kg) did not increase toxicity but improved induction smoothness.
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