Comparison between sodium thiopentone, propofol and etomidate as an induction agent for modified electroconvulsive therapy

Abstract

Introduction: Electroconvulsive Therapy is a well-established psychiatric treatment in which seizures are electrically induced in anaesthetized patients for therapeutic effects. Material & Methods: This study was carried out after clearance from the ethical committee. 150 cases were in this study, divided into three equal groups (n=50). Group A was received Propofol 1%, group B received Etomidate, group C received Sodium Thiopentone 2.5%. They were compared as regards induction time, seizure duration, hemodynamic effects, recovery from anaesthesia & immediate side effects.Result: Induction was quicker in Propofol group i.e. 44.3 /5.02 s than in Etomidate 52.54 / 5.21 s and 50.16 / 5.68 s. Seizure duration was significantly higher in Etomidate 29.34/ 6.99 s compared to Propofol 19.4/ 7.51 s & Thiopentone 24/ 6.99 s. Though significant rise in HR, SBP, DBP and MAP was observed in all 3groups following ECT; but the rise was least in Propofol group. Significantly faster recovery was observed with Propofol. Immediate side effects were not significant in the three groups.Conclusion: Propofol seems to be superior to Etomidate and Sodium Thiopentone when used as an induction agent for modified ECT.