Propofol and thiopentone sodium as induction agents in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis): A comparative study

Abstract

Propofol and thiopentone sodium as induction agents were evaluated in 12 healthy water buffaloes of either sex (3-5 years; 350-500 kg). Midazolam (0.2 mg/kg) + butorphanol (0.02 mg/kg) intravenously was used for premedication in both groups. After 5 min of premedication, anaesthesia was induced by 1% propofol (3 mg kg-1) in PRO group and by 5% thiopentone sodium (10 mg kg-1) in THIO group and maintained with isoflurane-oxygen mixture up to 30 min. Anaesthetic efficacy was assessed on the basis of quality of induction and recovery, time taken for induction and recovery and incidence of side effects. Heart rate, respiration rate, rectal temperature and mean blood pressure were also monitored. Propofol provided rapid and smooth induction of anaesthesia along with satisfactory conditions for endotracheal intubation. Propofol was associated with lesser respiratory depression than thiopentone sodium. Side effects like apnea and regurgitation were lesser and recovery was faster and smoother following propofol administration. Propofol was shown to be superior than thiopentone sodium and can be used as an alternative to thiopentone sodium for induction of general anaesthesia in water buffaloes. © 2013 Taylor & Francis.