Abstract

The aim of the present study was to compare the change in heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial blood pressure during endotracheal intubation among smokers and non-smokers undergoing elective surgery under general anaesthesia. Methods: 110 male patients (55 smokers and 55 nonsmokers) of ASA I or II scheduled for elective surgeries requiring general anaesthesia in Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bangalore, were enrolled in the study. On the day of surgery, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure were measured 3 minutes before intubation, at the completion of intubation and every minute for the first 5 minutes after intubation and in every 5 minute for initial 20 minutes. Results: Among smokers the increase in heart rate was higher and statistically significant (<0.001) when compared with nonsmokers immediately following intubation and persisted till next 20 minutes. The change in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial blood pressure were higher and statistically significant (<0.001) among smokers when compared with nonsmokers for initial 15-20 minutes following laryngoscopy. Conclusion: The study concludes that smokers have a significantly exaggerated haemodynamic response immediately after intubation than nonsmokers, which last up to next 15-20 minutes in terms of tachycardia and hypertension. Thus, abstinence of smoking is mandatory to reduce morbidities and mortality associated with smokers undergoing general anesthesia.

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