Total intravenous anaesthesia with propofol and buprenorphine

A combination of propofol infusion and two bolus doses of buprenorphine, 2.5 or 5.0 micrograms/kg were evaluated in a total intravenous anaesthesia technique in 36 patients of ASA grade 1 or 2 undergoing cholecystectomy. Additional boluses of propofol were given intravenously if needed. Systolic blood pressure after tracheal intubation increased significantly only in those who received the smaller dose of buprenorphine. Patients in both groups remained haemodynamically stable throughout surgery with minimal side effects. Recovery was fast even with prolonged infusions and without major side effects. No patient reported awareness on postoperative questioning.