The optimal effect-site concentration of sufentanil for laryngeal mask insertion during induction with target-controlled propofol infusion at 4.0 μg/mL

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to determine the optimal effect-site concentration (Ce) of sufentanil for satisfactory insertion of laryngeal mask airway (LMA) when administered with a target-controlled infusion (TCI) of propofol at 4.0 μg/mL. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 25 adult patients scheduled for minor elective surgery were enrolled in this study. All patients received induction with a combination of propofol and sufentanil TCI. The TCI of sufentanil was started at a target Ce of 0.1 ng/mL. After equilibrium with the plasma concentration, the TCI of propofol was initiated, targeting a preset Ce of 4.0 μg/mL. After the loss of consciousness, LMA was inserted and assessed by an experienced Anesthesiologist. The Ce of sufentanil for the next patient was guided by modified Dixon's up-and-down method using 0.05 ng/mL as a step size. The Ce of sufentanil required for successful LMA insertion in 50% of adults (EC50) was determined by calculating the midpoint concentration of all independent pairs of patients after at least seven crossover points. RESULTS: The optimal Ce (EC50) of sufentanil for LMA insertion during propofol induction using target Ce of 4 μg/mL was 0.16 ng/mL (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.12-0.20). There was a significant reduction in propofol induced pain score P = 0.0275 and insignificant hemodynamic changes. CONCLUSION: Ce of sufentanil required for successful LMA insertion in 50% of patients (EC50) using propofol target Ce of 4.0 μg/mL was 0.16 ng/mL (95% CI = 0.12-0.20) with a significant reduction in the propofol induced pain and hemodynamic stability.