The feasibility of tracheal intubation without muscle relaxant after induction of anesthesia with target controlled propofol infusion and surface anesthesia

Objective:To evaluate the feasibility of tracheal intubation without muscle relaxant after induction of anesthesia with propofol given by target controlled infusion(TCI) and surface anesthesia.Methods:Forty ASAⅠorⅡpatients of both sexes(20 males,20 females) aged 20～60 years scheduled for elective operation under general anesthesia were studied.Fentanyl 1 μg/kg was given iv as premedication.Anesthesia was induced with propofol given by TCI.The target effect site concentration of propofol was set at 4 μg/ml.BP、HR and bispectral index(BIS) were monitored during induction and intubation.The results of tracheal intubation were graded as satisfactory,average and poor based on intubation conditions and intubation response including easiness of ventilating the patients via face mask,jaw relaxation,easiness of inserting laryngoscope and visualization of larynx,the vocal cord position and patients response to intubation such as cough,limb movement and response to cuff inflation.Results:HR and BP were significantly increased within 1 min after intubation as compared to the baseline values before intubation(P0.01) .There was no significant defference in BIS values before and after intubation.All patients were successfully intubated at first attempt.90% patients were graded as satisfactory.Conclusion:Induction of anesthesia with TCI of propofol at target effect site concentration of 4 μg/ml and surface anesthesia might provide satisfactory intubating conditions without muscle relaxant.