Pharmacokinetics as applied to total intravenous anaesthesia. Practical implications

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pharmacology
• Surgical Procedures

Background:

• Total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) is a common anesthetic technique.
• Computer-assisted drug delivery systems enhance TIVA precision.
• Etomidate and alfentanil are commonly used anesthetic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of computer-assisted total intravenous anesthesia (CATIA) using etomidate and alfentanil.
• To assess the achievement of target plasma concentrations for etomidate and alfentanil.
• To determine the quality of anesthesia and recovery during gynecological surgery.

Main Methods:

• Six patients undergoing gynecological surgery received CATIA.
• Etomidate and alfentanil were administered using a B.E.T. infusion scheme.
• Constant plasma levels of etomidate (0.3 microgram/ml) and alfentanil (0.45 microgram/ml) were maintained.

Main Results:

• CATIA with etomidate and alfentanil achieved and maintained target plasma concentrations throughout surgery.
• The anesthetic technique provided adequate intraoperative hypnosis and analgesia.
• Patients exhibited a short duration of recovery after surgery.

Conclusions:

• Computer-assisted total intravenous anesthesia (CATIA) is a viable and effective method for gynecological surgery.
• The B.E.T. infusion scheme facilitates precise control of etomidate and alfentanil plasma levels.
• CATIA offers a favorable recovery profile in patients undergoing abdominal surgery.