Comparison of Hemodynamic Changes & Side Effects During Induction of General Anesthesia with Propofol Versus Thiopental Sodium for Orbital Growth Surgery

Background and objective: Orbital growth requires surgical management under general anesthesia, where maintaining hemodynamic stability is essential to prevent secondary ocular complications and systemic deterioration. Induction agents play a pivotal role in determining intraoperative cardiovascular responses. Propofol and Thiopental Sodium are frequently used intravenous induction agents, yet their comparative effects on hemodynamic stability in this specific surgical context remain a critical consideration. This study aims to evaluate and compare the hemodynamic profiles of Propofol and Thiopental Sodium during the induction and maintenance phases of general anesthesia for patients undergoing Orbital Growth surgery. There is always a degree of risk involved, as the hemodynamic parameters may be altered. This study aimed to see the hemodynamic changes among the use of Thiopental Sodium and Propofol for the induction of general anesthesia (GA), as well as to describe the side effects of both drugs in Orbital Growth surgeries. Methods: The study was a randomized controlled trial conducted from July 2023 to June 2025 among patients undergoing elective Orbital Growth surgeries under GA. The patients were divided into two groups based on the type of drug administered: Group A, the Propofol group, and Group B, the Thiopental Sodium group. Randomization was done by computer-generated random number generator software. A total of 100 patients were selected (50 in each group) at a ratio of 1:1. A baseline evaluation of the hemodynamic parameters was done, followed by continuous monitoring. Results: The age, weight, and gender distribution of the patients in both groups were comparable. Significant hemodynamic changes were observed following induction in Group A. The fall in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) in Group A following induction was found to be statistically significant (p<0.05). The rise in heart rate was nearly identical in both groups, with Group A exhibiting a slightly higher rate. The major side effects observed after induction were Bradycardia, which was more prevalent in Group A patients (21.84%), and pain at the injection site, which was observed more frequently in Group A (17.1%). Conclusion: Thiopental sodium may offer superior hemodynamic stability compared to Propofol in patients undergoing general anesthesia for Orbital Growth surgeries. These findings suggest that the choice of induction agent should be carefully considered based on individual cardiovascular risk and surgical urgency. Further large-scale studies are recommended to validate these outcomes. J.Natl.Inst.Ophthalmol.2025;8(1): 42-46