Comparison of Dexmedetomidine-Propofol versus Fentanyl-Propofol on Insertion Conditions of Proseal Laryngeal Mask Airway.

INTRODUCTION

Proseal Laryngeal Mask Airway (PLMA) is a newer supraglottic airway device that requires adequate depth of anaesthesia and suppression of upper airway reflexes thereby providing optimal insertion conditions.

AIM

To compare dexmedetomidine and fentanyl for co-induction with propofol with respect to PLMA insertion conditions, haemodynamic variation and the total dose requirement of propofol.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective randomized double-blinded study conducted in 60 cases of American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) class I/II undergoing elective surgery under general anaesthesia. They were randomly divided into two equal groups, D and F, each receiving 1μg/kg of dexmedetomidine and fentanyl respectively followed by Propofol 2.5mg/kg as per protocol. The ease of PLMA insertion was Young's Criteria and Modified scheme of Lund and Stovener. The haemodynamic parameters (mean heart rate, mean arterial pressure, Respiratory rate, SPO) were monitored at: Baseline, Pre-medication, Pre PLMA, Post LMA (at insertion), 1, 3, 5, 10, 15 and 20 minutes.

RESULTS

PLMA insertion conditions and haemodynamics were comparable between the dexmedetomidine-propofol and fentanyl-propofol groups according to the Young's criteria and Modified scheme of Lund and Stovener. Total induction dose of propofol and its increments were significantly reduced in the dexmedetomidine group.

CONCLUSION

Dexmedetomidine and fentanyl when both used individually for co-induction with propofol for PLMA insertion give excellent overall insertion conditions with haemodynamic stability. Dexmedetomidine also significantly reduces the requirements of induction dose propofol for PLMA insertion.