Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026

Guidelines for Elective Pediatric Fiberoptic Intubation
Published on: January 17, 2011
[Propofol in general anesthesia in children]
M Cvejanov1, L Pejakov, S Marinković
1Institut za zdravstvenu zastitu dece i omladine, Medicinski fakultet, Novi Sad.
Insights
Propofol anesthesia in children showed a faster recovery than barbiturate anesthesia, making it suitable for day care centers. However, it caused more cardiovascular changes and side effects during induction.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pediatric Medicine
Context:
- Propofol is widely used for adult total intravenous anesthesia.
- Limited data exists on propofol's use in pediatric anesthesia.
Purpose:
- To compare propofol anesthesia with barbiturate (thiopentone and halothane) anesthesia in children.
- Evaluate effects on induction, maintenance, and recovery.
Summary:
- 50 children received propofol (average dose 2.38 mg/kg), compared to 50 in the control group (thiopentone/halothane).
- Propofol group experienced greater decreases in systolic and diastolic pressure during induction, which stabilized later.
- Propofol anesthesia had more side effects (pain, apnea, movements) than halothane anesthesia.
Impact:
- Propofol anesthesia resulted in a shorter recovery period.
- This suggests propofol's advantage for pediatric anesthesia in day care settings.
Abstract:
For a long period of time propofol has been in use for total intravenous anesthesia in adults. In our literature there are no data on the use of propofol in pediatric anesthesia. The aim of the study was to compare effects of propofol for the induction of anesthesia, maintenance and recovery after anesthesia, with barbiturate, that is, inhalation anesthesia during spontaneous breathing. 50 children underwent propofol anesthesia. A control group comprised 50 children who underwent thiopentone and halothane anesthesia. The average propofol dose was 2.38 mg/kg/tt. Monitoring of cardiovascular parameters revealed statistically significant variations in systolic and diastolic pressure in both groups, but a more significant decrease was recorded in the propofol group. The decrease, recorded only during the initiation of anesthesia, stabilized afterwards. Side effects (pain during the initiation, apnea, spontaneous movements) were present in the propofol anesthesia, while in the halothane group they were reduced. In the propofol group period of recovery was short, indicating advantages of this anesthetic in day care centers.
Related Concept Videos
General Anesthesia: Overview
General anesthesia induces unconsciousness in the whole body, while the others target specific areas or sensations. It is administered to minimize adverse effects, maintain...
Stages of General Anesthesia
Parenteral Anesthetics: Overview
Inhalational Anesthetics: Overview
Drug Dosing: Infants and Children
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption

