The Effect of Propofol on Chronic Headaches in Patients Undergoing Endoscopy

OBJECTIVE: This study determined acute and long-term effects of propofol administration in patients with severe headaches undergoing endoscopic procedures. BACKGROUND: Approximately 13% of the US population is affected by migraines or severe headaches. The effect of propofol on headaches more than a few days after the intervention has not been explored. METHODS: We employed a nonrandomized, prospective observational study that recruited patients with chronic headaches who received propofol from an outpatient endoscopy center for either upper or lower endoscopies. Patients completed the six-item Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) questionnaire prior to the procedure and 30 days after endoscopy. Additionally, the patients' response to propofol two days after endoscopy was assessed via phone. RESULTS: The age of the participants (n=31) ranged from 20 to 70 years. The mean HIT-6 composite scores were significantly lower (p < 0.05) 30 days after propofol administration when compared to baseline scores. Upon stratification, 23 patients indicated an improved condition, 7 a worsened outcome, and 1 showed no change. Furthermore, mean scores were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in three HIT-6 questions pertaining to the severity of pain, daily activity, and frequency of lying down. Finally, the mean pain score obtained was significantly lower (p < 0.05) two days after procedure. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this suggest that propofol administration should be considered in treating chronic headaches. Double-blind studies are necessary to confirm these results.