Evaluation of anaesthetic characteristics of propofol in non-premedicated rabbits with experimentally induced post renal unilateral ureteral obstruction

Abstract

This study was carried out to investigate the anaesthetic characteristics of propofol in rabbits with unilateral ureteral obstruction. Rabbits in two groups (B and C) were anaesthetized respectively with 10 mg/kg propofol intravenously (IV) on days 7 and 14 post unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). Healthy rabbits in group A served as the control group and were anaesthetized with propofol (10 mg/kg, IV). Duration of anaesthesia obtained in the control group was significantly (p<0.05) shorter compared to anaesthetic duration of groups B and C. Time of recovery from anaesthesia in group A was significantly (p<0.05) faster compared to that obtained in group C. Quality of induction, recovery quality and depth of anaesthesia were noted to be good in the three groups of rabbits. Apnoea was observed more in diseased rabbits (groups B and C) compared to the healthy rabbits. Heart rate of rabbits in groups A and B increased but decreased in group C post propofol injection (PPI). Respiratory rates (RR) of rabbits in all the groups decreased PPI with the highest respiratory depression noted in group C. Haematocrit of all rabbits increased though not significantly (p>0.05) while white blood cell counts of rabbits decreased PPI. Total serum protein (TSP) and blood urea nitrogen levels of the three groups of rabbits increased PPI though not significantly (p>0.05). Serum potassium, chlorine and bicarbonate levels of rabbits in all the three study groups increased PPI. Propofol at the dose used in this study induced rapid induction and recovery from anaesthesia, adequate depth of anaesthesia with no untoward haematologic and serum biochemical effects in UUO rabbits. However it’s marked respiratory depressant effect and ability to increase serum potassium levels may preclude its use in advanced UUO.

Keywords: Ureteral obstruction, Propofol, Potassium, Apnoea, Anaesthesia