Comparison of intubating conditions and hemodynamics during rapid sequence induction and intubation using propofol and rocuronium with low dose ephedrine and without ephedrine

ABSTRACT

Background: Rocuronium, a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent, has been used for rapid sequence induction and intubation, as it has rapid onset and acceptable intubating conditions at higher doses. Propofol, when used as an induction agent reduces cardiac output, thereby may decrease delivery of neuromuscular blocking agent at neuromuscular junction and thereby time of onset of action of rocuronium can be increased. Ephedrine has been described to speed up the onset of action of rocuronium and provide better intubating conditions during induction of anesthesia. We conducted this study to quantify the effect of ephedrine on intubation conditions and hemodynamic profile during induction of general anesthesia with propofol and rocuronium