ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Propofol is an intravenous anesthetic characterized by rapid induction and prompt recovery. Recently, its is used widely in clinical practice, especially when early discharge is advisable. We conducted this study for the evaluation of the effects of propofol as a sole intravenous anesthetic on the operation with minimal pain such as TUL(transurethral lithotripsy). METHODS: Patients were recruited for ASA class 1 and 2 from those who received TUL operation. Propofol was administered 2 mg/kg for induction and continuously infused at the rate of 1.2~1.4 mg/kg/hr after the loss of consciousness. With the stabilization of the vital signs, we reduced the dose of propofol to 1.0~1.2 mg/kg/hr. We checked the patients' movement, vital signs, recovery time and monitored the appearance of the symtoms such as nausea, vomiting postoperatively. RESULTS: 1) The average time of operation was 15+/-12 minutes. 2) The average recovery time was 15+/-9 minutes(range 2~30 min). 3) Blood pressure and peripheral oxygen saturation(SpO2) were declined during anesthesia, but SpO2 was normalized in the recovery room. 4) No significant complications were observed. 5) Mild movement of the patient was noticed in the begining of operation, but it did not affect the surgical procedure. CONCLUSIONS: Propofol was effective as a sole intravenous anesthetic to minimize postoperative complications such as nauea, vomiting for TUL with minimal pain.