A Study on Haemodynamic Changes in Plain and Hyperbaric Solution of Ropivacaine for Spinal Anaesthesia

Abstract

Background: Historically bupivacaine was used as it had a long duration of action, but subsequently it was found that "propyl derivatives" of pipecoloxylidides were less toxic than 'butyl derivatives' (bupivacaine). Thus ropivacaine was developed after bupivacaine was noted to be associated with significant number of cardiac arrests. Subjects and Methods: A comparative study of plain and hyperbaric solution of ropivacaine for spinal anaesthesia in minor gynaecological and urological procedures was undertaken in 60 patients. Patients were randomized in to two groups with 30 patients in Group H (2ml of 0.75% plain ropivacaine and 1ml of 25% dextrose) and 30 patients in Group P (2ml of 0.75% ropivacaine and 1ml of 0.9% normal saline). The onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade, sensory level achieved, and haemodynamic parameters were assessed. Results: The mean age of patients in group H was 45.83 ± 5.43 years compared to 45.76 ± 6.97 years in group P. In group H there were 11 males (37%) and 19 females (63%). In group P there were 10 males (33%) and 20 females (67%). The mean height of the patients in group H was 157.20 ± 5.06 cms and in group P was 159.70 ± 7.78 cms. The mean weight of the patients in group H was 56.63 ± 6.46 kgs and in group was 59.07 ± 7.53. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups with regard to age, sex, height and weight (p>0.05). Both the groups were comparable with respect to age, sex, height and weight distribution. Conclusion: There was no significant change in systolic blood pressure following subarachnoid block in both groups. The systolic blood pressure values were comparable in both groups without any clinical or statistical significance.