The histopathological comparison of the results of the intra-arterial injections of propofol and thiopentone in rabbits.

The results of injections of propofol and thiopentone intra-arterially are compared in rabbits according to histopathological criteries. Thirteen New Zealand type rabbits are used. Two ml of 2.5% Thiopentone and 2 ml of 1% Propofol are administered to the rabbits under anesthesia. Three days after, their ears are amputated and sent to this pathological blind examination. In both groups, we saw neither a morphological change along the vessel walls nor significant bleeding. But between the groups there was a significant difference about oedema. Consequently, 2.5% thiopentone which is routinely used after intra-arterial administration, may be responsible of the gangrenous change but it is discussable and it makes significant oedema in animal models although propofol does not have this effect.