Double blind comparison of fentanyl and sulfentanil in anesthesia

In a double-blind experiment fentanyl and sulfentanil were compared using three different anesthesia schedules. Only interventions of long duration were selected. In all three systems induction was carried out with 0.5 mg fentanyl or 0.05 mg sulfentanil, followed by etomidate and a muscle relaxant. Anesthesia was maintained with nitrous oxide and with repeated standard injection of the narcotic. In a first group reinjections always consisted of 0.1 mg of fentanyl or 0.01 mg of sulfentanil. In a second series reinjections were done with 0.5 mg of fentanyl or 0.05 mg of sulfentanil. In the third group the same reinjection schedule as in the first group was followed, but immediately after induction an injection of 1.25 mg of droperidol was administered. Both substances were compared as to their analgesic potency and their potential influences on hemodynamics. Special attention was also paid to postoperative ventilation and vigilance.