Uses, Advantages and Disadvantages of Intravenous Anaesthetics

USES, ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF INTRAVENOUS ANAESTHETICS 

Uses

  • For induction of anaesthesia, followed by inhalational agents
  • As a single agent for short term procedures
  • For treatment of conditions needing long term sedation
  • For TIVA ( Total Intra Venous Anaesthesia)
  • For treatment of tetanus, epilepsy etc.

Advantages

  • Easy induction of anaesthesia
  • Minimal apparatus requirement
  • Brief and smooth recovery
  • Minimal post-anaesthetic complications
  • No danger of explosion or pollution
  • Pleasant and nonirritating

Disadvantages

  • Control of depth and level of anaesthesia not easy
  • If overdose given, cannot be readily eliminated or detoxified
  • Difficulty in finding vein and catheterization needed to sustain anaesthesia
  • Not ideal for caesarean as they cross placenta, may depress fetal respiration
  • Drug may be irritant if it escapes into perivascular sites
  • Contraindicated in renal and hepatic ailments
Last modified: Tuesday, 15 May 2012, 12:08 PM