In anesthesia for cesarean section, thiopental sodium is regarded as the standard induction agent. Propofol, 2,6 di-isopropyl phenol, is a relatively new intravenous anesthetic agent and has been used for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia or total intravenous anesthesia. Propofol has properties which suggest that it might be useful alternative to thiopental.

Forty patients (ASA physical status 1,2) scheduled for cesarean section were randomized to either propofol (n=20) or thiopental group (n=20). In thiopental group anesthesia was induced with thiopental 4-5 mg/kg intravenously and maintained by inhalation of enflurane and nitrous oxide. In propofol group anesthesia was induced with propofol 2 mg/kg intravenously and maintained by continuous infusion of propofol 6-10 mg/kg/hr and inhalation of nitrous oxide.

Systolic and mean arterial pressure were increased significantly in both groups at 1 min after intubation, but degree of increase were less in propofol group. There was no significant difference in diastolic pressure in both groups. Heart rate was increased significantly in both groups at afterinduction, but degree of increase were less in propofol group. The Apgar scores of the neonates and blood gas analyses of umbilical vein were not significantly different in both groups. Maternal recovery from anesthesia was quicker in propofol group.

A propofol infusion coupled with nitrous oxide was proved to be clinically satisfactory anesthesia for cesarean section with no adverse effect on both mother and fetus. Conclusively, propofol would be an excellant alternative to thiopental sodium and inhalation anesthetic in general anesthesia for cesarean section.