Effect site concentration of propofol at induction and recovery of anaesthesia - A correlative dose-response study

Sound knowledge about effect site concentration (Ce) of propofol aids in smooth induction, maintenance and early recovery. We studied the correlation between Ce of propofol at loss of response to verbal command and recovery concentration using target-controlled infusion (TCI) in Indian patients who underwent spine surgeries.

Ninety patients undergoing spine surgeries were included. Total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) technique with TCI for propofol using modified Marsh model was used. Entropy and neuromuscular transmission were used. Ce at induction and recovery and the corresponding state entropy (SE) values were noted.

The mean propofol Ce and SE at induction were 2.34 ± 0.24 μg/ml and 52 ± 8, respectively. The mean propofol Ce and SE at recovery were 1.02 ± 0.22 μg/ml and 86.80 ± 2.86, respectively. The Ce at recovery was approximately 50% of the induction value. The correlation coefficient 'r' between Ce at induction and recovery was 0.56. The mean infusion dose of propofol during the maintenance period was 81 ± 14.33 μg/kg/min. The average induction dose of propofol was 1.17 ± 0.2 mg/kg.

There is a positive correlation between Ce at induction and recovery. Ce for recovery may have to be set at a lower level during TCI-TIVA and appropriately infusion should be stopped for early recovery. The induction and maintenance doses of propofol are lower than the recommended doses. Data emphasise the need for pharmacokinetic model based on our population characteristics.