Introduction: ECT consists of programmed electrical stimulation of the CNS to initiate seizure activity. Modified ECT started with the use of IV induction agent and Muscle relaxant in 1963.  This study was conducted to compare the effects of thiopentone sodium and propofol as an anaesthetic agent in modified ECT.

Material and Method: 30 patients of ASA grade II with only psychiatric illness were divided into two groups randomly and two sessions of ECT per patients were included. Group T received Inj. Thiopentone 2.5mg/kg IV over 20 sec while Group P received Inj. Propofol 1.5 mg/ kg   IV over 20 sec. Inj. Succinyl choline 0.5mg/kg was given after isolating one forearm. Drugs were evaluated regarding their effects on ECT induced haemodynamic changes (Blood pressure, Heart rate), SpO2, seizure response, seizure  duration, recovery characteristics and  any side effects during the procedure and recovery.

Results: It was observed that Heart rate(HR) of the group T increase significantly after ECT compared to group P (P˂0.05).The increase in Systolic Blood pressure (SBP),Diastolic blood pressure(DBP) and Mean arterial Pressure(MAP)  after ECT were more with group T compared to group P (P˂0.05). Group P had seizure duration of 28±4 secs. which was less than group T (40±6 secs) (P˂0.05). Eye opening was early in group P (424 ±64) than group T (547±41)( P˂0.05). Pt in Group P sit unaided at 623±86 seconds compared to Group T (896±70) )( P˂0.05).

Conclusion: Propofol in the dosage of 1.5mg/kg intravenously can be safely used for modified ECT.

Keywords: Modified ECT, Thiopentone Sodium, Propofol.

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Sonali Ashish Joshi

Assistant professor, Department of Anaesthesia, SMIMER, Surat

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