Effect of auditory versus tactile stimulation on speed of recovery from general anaesthesia

Background and aim: Time for recovery from anaesthesia varies depending on genetic factors, comorbidities, and age. Prolonged recovery delays return to baseline and safe functioning, and increases costs due to more time spent in post-anaesthesia recovery units. The present study aimed to compare the effect of tactile and auditory stimulations on patients' recovery from general anaesthesia. Materials and Methods: This randomised, double blinded, two-centre, clinical trial was conducted at King Abdullah Bin Abdul-Aziz University Hospital, Riyadh and King Salman Specialist Hospital, Hail, KSA, from January through August, 2021. Standard monitoring was maintained throughout surgery. Bi-spectral Index (BIS) was monitored through electrodes applied on the patient's forehead. Perfusion index was assessed using MASiMO, (MASiMO, model;Root, designed by MASiMO in California; assembled in Mexico, Masimo corporation, 52 discovery, Irvine, CA92618 USA). The disposable sensors and pulse oximetry (RD rainbow SET) was connected. During the maintenance phase, patients were allowed to breathe spontaneously sevoflurane (2%, end-tidal sevoflurane concentration was measured, and MAC was adjusted to maintain the BIS value < 60, and the mean blood pressure and heart rate within 20% up and down of baseline values.) all through the surgery time. With start of skin suturing sevoflurane was discontinued & 0.25 g/kg of fentanyl was given. Throughout the surgery, sevoflurane was discontinued and 0.25 g/kg of fentanyl was given (total range: 12.5-23.5 g). Results: Group T patients had significantly shorter time to first eye opening (272.24 7.37 versus 333.68 46.82 seconds, p < 0.001), shorter LMA removal time (322.82 7.61 versus 380.82 19.31 seconds, p < 0.001) and shorter PACU time (36.82 3.78 versus 43.16 4.34 minutes, p < 0.001) when compared group A patients. Also, patients in the T group needed significantly shorter time to reach BIS > 60 (196.24 27.13 versus 208.32 27.24 seconds, p = 0.02). Conclusion: Tactile stimulation is associated with shorter time to recovery from general anaesthesia as compared to auditory stimulation.