Comparison of propofol and thiamylal for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia for outpatient surgery.

In an open, randomized study we have compared the safety and efficacy of propofol with thiamylal for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia supplemented by nitrous oxide in elective termination of pregnancy. Induction of anaesthesia was achieved with either propofol 2.5 mg kg-1 or thiamylal 4.0 mg kg-1 followed by maintenance with 70% nitrous oxide in oxygen and repeat boluses of 25% of the induction dose i.v. as indicated clinically. Both drugs induced and maintained anaesthesia reliably, with some minor differences. Recovery from propofol was significantly more rapid. The patients in the propofol group were alert and orientated early in the postoperative period, with less nausea or vomiting. Propofol has properties that are of particular benefit in anaesthesia for ambulatory surgery.