Comparison of thiopentone sodium and propofol for electro convulsive therapy (ECT)

Objective: For safe conduct of electro convulsive therapy (ECT), general anaesthesia is administered to the patients. In this study we compared thiopentone sodium and propofol as induction agents for ECT. Patients and Methods: Twenty five patients each undergoing at least 2 sessions of ECT at the psychiatry department were included in the study. Each patient either received thiopentone or propofol for induction of sleep in a randomized manner. Drugs were evaluated regarding their effects on ECT induced haemodynamic changes (Blood pressure, Heart rate), seizure duration related to the procedure and recovery from sleep. Any side effects during the procedure and recovery were also noted. Results: Propofol offered a superior haemodynamic stability during the procedure and a quick recovery from sleep. Conclusion: Propofol was found to be a better induction agent for ECT compared to thiopentone sodium.