COMPARISON OF I-GEL INSERTION CONDITIONS USING DEXMEDETOMIDINE-PROPOFOL VERSUS FENTANYL-PROPOFOL: AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: i-gel insertion requires adequate depth of anaesthesia to prevent coughing, gagging, limb movements. We aimed to compare i-gel insertion conditions with propofol induction after pre-treatment with dexmedetomidine or fentanyl.

Methods: 44 patients of ASAI/II undergoing general anaesthesia were divided into Groups D n = 22 and F n = 22. Group D received 1 μg/kg dexmedetomidine over 10 minutes followed by 5ml of 0.9%normal saline NS over 2 minutes. Group F received 10 ml of 0.9%NS over 10 minutes followed by fentanyl 1 μg/kg over 2 minutes. Thirty seconds after study drugs, propofol 2 mg/kg was given. Ninety seconds after propofol, i-gel was inserted. Overall insertion conditions were assessed by Modified Scheme of Lund and Stovener. Heart-rate (HR), respiratory rate, blood pressure, spo2, mean arterial pressure (MAP), apnoea time were noted at baseline, after study drug given, after propofol induction, 3, 5,10 minutes after i-gel insertion.

Results: Moderately relaxed jaw, coughing, movement was observed in more patients of Group F. Incidence and mean duration of apnoea was significantly higher in group F. MAP after propofol induction was significantly lower in group F. After propofol and i-gel insertion, HR was significantly lower with dexmedetomidine.

Statistical test: Unpaired t-test and chi-square test.

Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine is superior to fentanyl in preserving respiration and provide better jaw relaxation for i-gel insertion.