Effects of nitrous oxide on cardiovascular parameters in pigs anesthetized with propofol and subjected to pressure-controlled ventilation

This paper evaluated the effects of the ratio of nitrous oxide to oxygen (50% of each) on cardiovascular parameters in pigs anesthetized with propofol and maintained in ventilation with intermittent positive pressure. Sixteen Large White pigs, weighing between 15 and 20 kg, were divided into two groups of eight animals, and designated as follows: GPN (propofol/nitrous oxide) and GPA (propofol/compressed air). In order to allow endotracheal intubation, the animals received azaperone (2 mg kg-1, IM) followed, after 20 minutes, by intravenous propofol. After successful intubation, continuous infusion of propofol was initiated at a dose of 0.4 mg kg-1minute-1. From this point, the GPN group received N2O (diluted in 50% oxygen), while the GPA group received compressed air (diluted in 50% oxygen). Rocuronium was then administered by continuous intravenous infusion at 0.6 mg kg-1h-1. Pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV) was started and adjusted to 15 cmH2O, and the respiratory rate was set to reach capnometry readings between 35-45 mmHg. The measurement of parameters (heart rate, mean arterial pressure, cardiac index, systemic vascular resistance index, stroke index) begun 15 minutes after the administration of rocuronium, and was repeated in 15-minute intervals for 60 minutes. Data were statistically analyzed by ANOVA followed by Bonferroni test. The results showed that the 1:1 ratio combination of nitrous oxide to oxygen (50% each) did not alter the mentioned parameters in pigs anesthetized with propofol and maintained at pressure-controlled ventilation, indicating that it is a safe protocol for the cardiovascular system.