The Combination of Sufentanil and Remifentanil on Hemodynamic Changes During Anesthetic Induction and Endotracheal Intubation

In presenting their results comparing the use of sufentanil alone (Group S) versus sufentanil with the addition of remifentanil (Group R) we would like to point out a significant source of potential bias in their study design and reporting of results. Specifically, the authors note that in their protocol atropine was administered in the event of bradycardia and dopamine was administered for hypotension. They present the data comparing the hemodynamic parameters using the two protocols but do not present any data regarding administration of these vaso active agents. This seems like an important omission when presenting data on hemodynamic stability during induction since this would be a significant confounder. Examining the administration of atropine and Letter to the Editor