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Hemodynamic responses to alfentanil in halothane-anesthetized dogs
Anesthesia and Analgesia
|July 1, 1986
Summary
Alfentanil, an opioid anesthetic, reduces blood pressure but preserves left ventricular function. However, it significantly decreases blood flow to the kidneys and liver, suggesting caution in patients with compromised organ function.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Alfentanil is an opioid anesthetic used in various surgical settings.
- Its precise impact on myocardial performance and regional blood flow remains incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hemodynamic effects of alfentanil on myocardial performance and regional blood flow.
- To assess the impact of alfentanil loading doses and continuous infusions in a canine model.
Main Methods:
- Sonomicrometry and radioactive microsphere techniques were employed.
- Hemodynamic responses were measured in dogs anesthetized with halothane, receiving alfentanil via loading dose and continuous infusion.
Main Results:
- Alfentanil administration led to a significant reduction in arterial pressure without altering left ventricular global or regional function.
- Cardiac output and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure were unchanged, while heart rate and systemic vascular resistance decreased.
- Perfusion to the heart, brain, muscle, and skin remained stable, but renal cortical and hepatic arterial blood flow decreased by 25% and 60%, respectively.
Conclusions:
- Alfentanil effectively reduces blood pressure while maintaining myocardial contractility and regional organ perfusion to critical areas like the brain and heart.
- The significant reduction in renal and hepatic blood flow indicates a need for careful consideration of alfentanil use in patients with pre-existing kidney or liver conditions.