Effects of Esmolol on the Esophagogastric Junction: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Crossover Study on 14 Healthy Volunteers

摘要

BACKGROUND: Passive regurgitation may occur throughout the perioperative period, increasing the risk for pulmonary aspiration and postoperative pulmonary complications. Hypnotics and opioids, especially remifentanil, that are used during anesthesia have been shown to decrease the pressure in the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), that otherwise acts as a barrier against passive regurgitation of gastric contents. Esmolol, usually used to counteract tachycardia and hypertension, has been shown to possess properties useful during general anesthesia. Like remifentanil, the beta-1-adrenoreceptor antagonist may be used to attenuate the stress reaction to tracheal intubation and to modify perioperative anesthetic requirements. It may also reduce the need for opioids in the postoperative period. Its action on the EGJ is however unknown. The aim of this trial was to compare the effects of esmolol and remifentanil on EGJ pressures in healthy volunteers, when administrated as single drugs.