Comparative evaluation of cost effectiveness and recovery profile between propofol and sevoflurane in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Background : Anesthetic agents should be chosen not only on the basis of safety-efficacy profile, but also on the economic aspect. Propofol and sevoflurane are commonly utilized anesthetic agent for general anesthesia. Aim: The present study was designated to compare cost-effectiveness and recovery profile between propofol and sevoflurane for induction, maintenance or both. Settings and Design: Randomized controlled, participant and data operator blinded trial. Materials and Methods: Ninety patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomized into three equal groups to receive: Group P to receive injection propofol for both induction and maintenance; Group PS to receive injection propofol for induction and sevoflurane for maintenance; and Group S to receive sevoflurane for both induction and maintenance of general anesthesia, respectively. Cost analysis, hemodynamic parameter, and recovery profile were compared between these groups. Statistical Analysis: One-way analysis of variance test or Fisher's exact test/Chi-square test whichever appropriate. Results: Total cost of anesthesia was highest in Group P and lowest in Group S. Mean time to extubation and time to follow verbal commands was lowest in Group S than Group P or Group P/S. Hemodynamic parameter was more stable in Group S. Conclusion: We conclude that sevoflurane appears to be better anesthetic agents in terms of cost-effectiveness and recovery profile.