Low effect-site concentration of propofol target-controlled infusion reduces the risk of hypotension during endoscopy in a Taiwanese population

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.