Induction for classic laryngeal mask airway insertion: Does low-dose fentanyl work?

BACKGROUND: Laryngeal mask airway (LMA) insertion requires an optimal balance of anesthesia. Propofol with different opioids is a preferred combination. Two doses of fentanyl were compared for the efficacy and side effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 96 patients were randomly distributed into F(1) (fentanyl 1 mcg/kg) and F(2) (fentanyl 2 mcg/kg) groups. The conditions for LMA insertion, hemodynamic profile, bronchoscopic view, and incidence of sore throat were compared. RESULT: There was no statistically significant difference in any parameter in the two groups except for a significant fall in systolic and mean arterial pressure in F(2) group. CONCLUSION: Both doses of fentanyl (1 and 2 mcg/kg) provide comparable insertion conditions for LMA. Fentanyl in the lower dose provides a more stable hemodynamic profile.