Propofol ('Diprivan') for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia.

The use of propofol for the induction and maintenance of anaesthesia was investigated. Induction with propofol was straightforward, with only a small drop in blood pressure. Pain on injection was the only noteworthy complication, particularly when propofol was injected via a small vein in the dorsum of the hand. A rapid infusion of 9.0 mg/kg/h for 30 min and then 4.5 mg/kg/h supplemented with fentanyl maintained anaesthesia without problem. The duration of action of atracurium was unaffected by the infusion of propofol, but the duration of action of vecuronium appeared to be prolonged. Three investigations of propofol, dissolved in soya bean oil, were carried out.