Target-controlled propofol infusion for sedation in patients undergoing transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy

The efficacy and safety of the routine use of target-controlled infusion of propofol for the sedation of patients undergoing transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy were assessed. The optimal level of sedation was also evaluated. A total of 250 patients were randomized into five groups according to sedation level determined by the Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation (OAA/S) scale. As the level of sedation was increased, the overall pain and discomfort score decreased and the satisfaction rate tended to: increase, although hypoxia meant that intervention occurred more frequently at higher sedation levels. Target-controlled infusion of propofol provided safe and effective sedation during transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy, particularly if moderate sedation (OAA/S score of 3) was achieved. The effect-site concentration of propofol for this level of sedation was about 1.5 μg/ml.