RESUMEN
The induction, maintenance and recovery characteristics of sevoflurane were compared with propofol when administered to 60 healthy outpatient females undergoing ambulatory diagnostic laparoscopy. Induction and tracheal intubation times were significantly shorter with propofol than with sevoflurane. Airway excitement was more prevalent during induction with sevoflurane as compared to propofol, however the use of propofol for induction was associated with a higher incidence of apnea and pain on injection. Mean arterial pressure [MAP] after induction with propofol was lower than that with sevoflurane, but the use of sevoflurane for induction was associated with slower heart rates in the immediate post induction period than propofol. HR and MAP were similar during the maintenance period. The recovery times were significantly shorter in the sevoflurane group compared with the propofol group. The use of sevoflurane for induction and maintenance was associated with a higher incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting compared with propofol