Clinical observation of the combined use of propofol and etomidate in painless gastroscopy

OBJECTIVE: This study is aims to compare the anesthetic safety of propofol combined with etomidate for painless gastroscopy. METHODS: Three hundred patients undergoing painless gastroscopy were randomly assigned to P, PE(1,) and PE(2) groups. Patients were anesthetized with propofol (P group) or propofol combined with etomidate (volume ratio 1: 1, PE(1) group; volume ratio 2: 1, PE(2) group). The hemodynamics and adverse reactions were observed. The sleep quality satisfaction and nature of dreams were recorded. RESULTS: Compared with pre-anesthesia, the mean arterial pressure and heart rate of the 3 groups were significantly slower during the examination and at the end of the examination. PE(1) group had a higher incidence of muscle spasm, body moving, choking, and deglutition. The incidence of hypoxemia and injection pain was higher in P group. P and PE(2) group had higher sleep quality satisfaction and dream incidence after awaking. However, there was no difference in the nature of dreams among 3 groups. CONCLUSION: Our data indicate that the combination of 10 ml 1.0% propofol and 5 ml 0.2% etomidate for painless gastroscopy reduces adverse reactions while not affecting the patients respiratory function. Moreover, it is safe and effective, which is worthy of clinical application and promotion.