The incidence of lower Apgar scores between 0 and 7 was significantly higher in the remifentanil group at
one minute (25% vs. 9.3% of newborns, p = 0.017); whilst at five minutes and later no Apgar score differences were
observed. There was no difference in the need for moderate (nasal CPAP) or intensive (intubation) respiratory support,
but significantly more neonates in the remifentanil group required tactile stimulation for breathing support (21% vs. 7%
of newborns, p = 0.017). There was no difference in the parameters from umbilical cord blood gas analysis between
the groups.
Conclusion: At a dose of 1 μg/kg, remifentanil prior to induction of general anaesthesia increases the risk of neonatal