3327 A randomized trial comparing patient-controlled sedation using propofol/Alfentanil to diazemul/Pethidine in patients undergoing outpatient colonoscopy

Background and Study Aims: PCS is increasingly used in day-case surgery. Its use seems ideal for colonoscopy as an outpatient procedure. In theory PCS leads to faster recovery and earlier discharge. Patients and Methods: Between July 1999 and October 1999 patients undergoing colonoscopy as an outpatient procedure were randomized to receive intravenous injection of diazemuls 0.1mg/Kg and pethidine 0.5mg/Kg or a mixture of propofol 400mg and alfentanil 1 mg delivered via a Graseby 3300 PCA pump in bolus of 2mg/ml (lockout period of 3 minutes). Patients' pulse rate and oxygen saturation were monitored continuously and blood pressure taken every 5 minutes. Outcome parameters included procedure time, recovery time, pain score (un-scaled 10cm visual analogue score), desaturation (oxygen saturation