Laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation stimulates cardiovascular responses such as hypertension, tachycardia and dysrhythmias. Sudden hypotension, arrhythmias, and cardiovascular collapse are threatening complications following Injection of induction agent in hemodynamically unstable patients demanding a search for safe inducing agent.

A prospective randomized study was conducted on 60 ASA Grade I and II patients aged 18-60 yrs scheduled for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS).They were divided into two groups of 30 each. One group received Inj. Etomidate 0.3mg/kg as induction agent Grp E and Inj. Propofol 2mg/kg in Grp F preceeded by Inj. Midazolam 0.02mg/kg and Inj.. Fentanyl 3µgm/kg. as premedication . Patients were maintained on O2 +Nitrous oxide +Isoflurane +intermittent doses of Inj. Vecuronium. Reversal done with Inj. Neostigmine 50 mcg/kg & Inj. Glycopyrrolate 10mcg/kg IV.before extubation . Haemodynamic parameters were observed at different intervals. Statistical data confirmed that Etomidate was a better inducing agent being haemodynamically stable with minimum side effects than Propofol.

Keywords:  Etomidate; Propofol;  Haemodynamic stability;  FESS.

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