Effect-site targeted patient-controlled sedation with propofol: Comparison with anaesthetist administration for colonoscopy

Abstract

Patient-controlled sedation (PCS) allows patients to match their sedation requirement to perceived discomfort. The significant delay in onset of sedation may be overcome with effect-site steered target controlled infusion, but previously only trials in volunteers have been carried out. We therefore conducted a randomised, double-blind controlled trial comparing effect-site steered propofol PCS with anaesthetist-administered propofol sedation in 40 patients presenting for colonoscopy. The initial effect-site target in the PCS group was 0.8 μg.ml-1, increment was 0.1 μg.ml-1 and lockout was 3 min. Patient and endoscopist satisfaction and operating conditions were similar between the two groups..