Publication:

Thiopentone versus propofol-anaesthetic of choice in patients undergoing modified electroconvulsive therapy

Background The use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as a treatment modality has increased over the recent years. This is largely due to the use of general anaesthetics, which reduces the physical and psychological trauma associated with the procedure. We attempted to compare the hemodynamic variations and recovery characteristics, along with their effect on seizure quality in patients induced with Thiopentone /Propofol, for Modified ECT.

Methods This was a prospective, randomised controlled study, involving 80 patients. Patients in group 1 received Thiopentone 5 mg/kg, while patients in group 2 received Propofol 1 mg/kg. The hemodynamic status and recovery status were monitored in both the groups for the first thirty minutes. Seizural duration were also recorded. Data was analysed using Students t-test and Pearson Chi-square test.

Results The induction time as well as recovery time was found to be significantly lesser (p 0.05).

Conclusions The quick and smooth induction, transient changes in hemodynamics, rapid recovery profile and minimal effects on the seizure quality altogether makes Propofol the preferred anaesthetic agent in Modified ECT.