Appropriate method of administration of propofol, fentanyl, and ketamine for patient-controlled sedation and analgesia during extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy

Purpose. The aim of this study was to identify the appropriate method for administering propofol, fentanyl, and ketamine (PFK) for patient-controlled sedation and analgesia (PCSA) during extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL). Methods. Twenty-one unpremedicated patients were randomly assigned to three groups that received different drug administration regimens. (group 1: low loading dose and high demand bolus, group 2: high loading dose and demand bolus, group 3: high loading dose and low demand bolus). Results. The patients in all groups were hemodynamically stable during ESWL. Oxygen desaturation was recognized in all groups, but was avoided by 2 l·min⁻¹ of oxygen supply via a nasal prong. The total administration dose of the drugs was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in group 2 than in groups 1 and 3. The median level of sedation was the same, but the episodes of oversedation were not recognized in group 3 (P < 0.05). A significant difference in the frequency of episodes of oversedation was found between groups 2 and 3 (P < 0.05). The results were good or excellent for almost all patients, and were assessed as fair by only one patient in group 2. Conclusion. We concluded that the method used for group 3 is the most appropriate for administering PFK for PCSA during ESWL. Received for publication on June 23, 1999; accepted on December 7, 1999