Comparison of Propofol-Ketamine vs Propofol-Fentanyl for Pediatric Sedation during Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Selection of the best sedative regimen during pediatric endoscopy with greater stability in hemodynamic parameters and fewer side effects is very important. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of propofol – ketamine versus propofol – fentanyl in pediatric undergoing diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE).
In this clinical trial, 130 children aged 2 to 12 years (ASA physical status I or II) were examined. Children were divided into two groups. Propofol (1.2 mg/kg) plus ketamine (1 mg/kg) was prescribed for the first group (Group PK). The second group received propofol (1.2 mg/kg) plus fentanyl (1 µg/kg) (Group PF). Hemodynamic variables and sedation scale of patients were compared between two groups.
The mean age of the children was 98.3±6.96 months and 97.15±3.56 months in group PK and group PF, respectively. Heart rate and respiratory rate values after induction in group PF were significantly lower than in group PK (p Both combinations provided effective sedation in pediatric patients undergoing UGIE, but the propofol-ketamine combination resulted in stable hemodynamics and deeper sedation although with more side effects.