Objective
Target‐controlled infusion (TCI) of propofol is an effective way of delivering propofol during endoscopy. However, the ideal effect‐site concentration (Ce) of propofol has not yet been defined in an Asian population. This study aimed to determine the ideal Ce of propofol in painless gastrointestinal endoscopy in a Taiwanese population.
Methods
A total of 121 consecutive patients undergoing diagnostic endoscopy were recruited for this study. The endoscopic procedure was carried out within 1 h. TCI of propofol was utilized during the procedure. All patients received the same regimen to induce conscious sedation, including a bolus of midazolam (0.04 mg/kg) and fentanyl (0.5 μg/kg). The Ce of propofol was calculated using the Schneider model. Patients were randomly assigned to either the low Ce group (1.5–2.5 μg/mL) or high Ce group (3.0–4.0 μg/mL). Their cardiovascular and respiratory events were monitored during the procedure and the patients' post‐procedure satisfaction was evaluated.
Results
The mean requirement for propofol was 232.02 mg in the low Ce group and 329.56 mg in the high Ce group, respectively (P < 0.0001). No unexpected event was observed in either group. However, more episodes of hypotension were observed in the high Ce group (P = 0.026). The post‐procedure satisfaction rate between the two groups was comparable.
Conclusion
A low Ce of propofol TCI (1.5–2.5 μg/mL) achieved adequate anesthesia, reduced the risk of hypotension, and attained a high satisfaction rate in a Taiwanese population undergoing diagnostic painless endoscopy.