[Initial experiences with propofol (Disoprivan) for anesthesia induction in pediatric anesthesia]

Propofol is a new intravenous anesthetic agent that provides smooth and rapid induction of anesthesia. A short elimination half-life guarantees rapid recovery. Since it has been reformulated as an emulsion in soya bean oil, anaphylactoid reactions are unlikely to occur. As compared to adults, there is very little experience with propofol in pediatric anesthesia. The aim of this study was to evaluate propofol as an induction agent in children with respect to cardiovascular and respiratory effects and to investigate the incidence of other side-effects. METHOD. In 25 ASA I children aged 3-12 years (6.4 +/- 2.7 SD) anesthesia was induced with a single dose of propofol, after standard premedication with atropine 0.01 mg/kg and Thalamonal 0.04 ml/kg. Anesthesia was maintained with halothane, nitrous oxide, and oxygen. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) were measured before and each minute for 6 min after propofol administration. The incidence of side-effects during induction of anesthesia as well as during recovery and the postoperative period were recorded. RESULTS. Propofol 2.5 mg/kg produced rapid and smooth induction of anesthesia. Mean arterial pressure decreased after 1 min by 14.3% with a maximum of 16.8% after 3 min. HR was influenced differently by propofol; children with initially high HR had a decrease in HR, whereas in children with a low initial rate, HR increased transiently. After 1 min, no further changes occurred. Although no apnea was observed, respiration was shallow and depressed, as indicated by a decrease in SaO2. Two children complained of pain and 4 of discomfort at the site of the injection; 1 of these developed transient phlebitis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)