Comparing Time to Readiness for Discharge After Colonoscopy: Propofol and Dexmedetomidine vs Propofol Only Sedation

Detailed Summary

An ideal sedative for colonoscopy should have properties that include: rapid onset and offset of action, provide cardiopulmonary stability, have minimal adverse effects, and allow for smooth recovery, and early discharge. Propofol is often used solely because of its rapid onset and short duration of action---a property which is ideal for a fast recovery and early discharge in the ambulatory setting. However, the use of propofol has been associated with undesirable effects such as hypotension, hypoventilation and apnea requiring assisted ventilation. Balanced anesthesia, using a combination of medications with different mechanisms of action can reduce the total amount of each sedative agent used and minimize their side effects while achieving the desired level of sedation. Dexmedetomidine is one agent that has been used either alone or in combination with propofol for sedation during colonoscopy. While there are many advantages to using dexmedetomidine, there is concern that the use of this agent for sedation during colonoscopy may prolong post-operative recovery time and readiness for discharge home. No study has definitively assessed whether the use of dexmedetomidine in combination with propofol during ambulatory colonoscopy prolongs post-operative recovery time as determined by the Modified Post Anesthesia Discharge Scoring System (MPADSS).

Study Details

Timeline

Interventions