Remifentanil-propofol versus fentanyl-propofol for monitored anesthesia care during hysteroscopy

Study ObjectiveTo compare the efficacy of remifentanil-propofol with that of fentanyl-propofol for monitored anesthesia care during hysteroscopy.DesignProspective, randomized study.SettingOperating room and postanesthesia care unit of a university hospital.Patients30 ASA physical status I and II adult patients undergoing hysteroscopic procedures.InterventionsAfter propofol infusion, patients received a bolus of remifentanil (group R, 0.5 μg/kg) or fentanyl (group F, 1 μg/kg) 4 minutes before starting the procedure and then received a continuous infusion of remifentanil (group R, 0.05 μg/kg per min) or bolus doses of fentanyl (group F, 0.5 μg/kg).Measurements and Main ResultsPatients in group R had lower pain scores than patients in group F (0-0 vs 0-7, P < 0.05) and more stable blood pressures (74 ± 15 vs 85 ± 9 mmHg, P < 0.05) one minute after the start of the procedure. However, no differences were observed in other variables (recovery profiles and satisfaction scores).ConclusionRemifentanil seems to be a safe and effective analgesic adjunct for monitored anesthesia care of hysteroscopic surgery.