Abstract
Objective The aim of this article is to determine whether dexmedetomidine or propofol is better
for MRI sedation in children.
Design This study is a retrospective review of patients sedated with dexmedetomidine or
propofol for MRI between July 2007 and July 2015. Dexmedetomidine group (group D)
was administered a bolus of 2 µg/kg over 10 minutes followed by a 1 ug/kg/hour infusion.
Propofol group (group P) received a bolus of 2 mg/kg over 2 minutes followed by 83
µg/kg/minute infusion.
Results Of the 996 cases completed, 452 were in group P and 544 were in group D. Patients
in group P were heavier and older than those in group D. All the patients except one
in group D completed the procedures. Hypotension occurred in 59% in group P versus
4% in group D (89 ± 11.4 SBP vs. 103.80 ± 19.4; p < 0.05). Bradycardia was observed in 2.9% in group P versus 0.6% in group D. Apnea
occurred in two patients in group D. Although procedure time was longer in patients
receiving propofol versus dexmedetomidine (58.87 ± 28.17 vs. 45 ± 23.6; p < .05), the discharge time was significantly shorter (37. ± 12.30 vs. 92.61 ± 28.19;
p < 0.05).
Conclusion Dexmedetomidine appears to provide a useful alternative to propofol for MRI sedation
with a longer recovery time, stable hemodynamics, and less reliable respiratory profile,
while the propofol had the advantage of quicker onset and rapid recovery.
Keywords
sedation - dexmedetomidine - propofol
