A 5-microm filter does not reduce propofol-induced pain.
We assessed the effectiveness of a 5-microm filter in reducing propofol-induced pain and determined whether any reduction is due to removal of contaminants or an alteration in flow characteristics. A total of 120 unpremedicated women (ASA 1-3, aged 18-70 yr) were randomly allocated to one of three equal-sized groups. In group A, propofol was drawn up and injected through an unfiltered plastic cannula. In group B, propofol was drawn up through a 5-microm filter needle and injected through an unfiltered plastic cannula. In group C, propofol was drawn up and injected through a 5-microm filter needle. Unmodified propofol from a 20-ml rubber topped vial at room temperature was used. A 22-g cannula was inserted into the largest visible vein on the dorsum of the non-dominant hand. Propofol was administered at 0.5 ml.s-1 and patients were asked about pain every 10 s until unresponsive, by a blinded observer. The pain score for the patient was the taken as the most severe pain documented. The frequency and severity of pain were similar among groups. We conclude that a 5-microm filter does not reduce pain associated with injection of propofol drawn from a vial with a rubber bung.
Hellier
C
C
James Cook University, Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Cairns Base Hospital, The Esplanade, Cairns 4870, Australia.
Newell
S
S
Barry
J
J
Brimacombe
J
J
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D018686:Anesthetics, Intravenous / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004340:Drug Contamination; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D008851:Micropore Filters; D008875:Middle Aged; D010146:Pain / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010147:Pain Measurement; D015742:Propofol / Q000009:adverse effects*
D018686:Anesthetics, Intravenous; D015742:Propofol