Comparison of pre-extubation propofol and midazolam to prevent emergence agitation in children—a prospective randomized study

Abstract

Background Emergence delirium is one of the most common and troublesome complications seen after inhalational anesthesia, with an estimated 20–80% incidence rate. It can lead to an increase in mortality, morbidity, and hospital stay, which indirectly reflects a major economic burden. The aim of our study is to compare the effect of propofol and two different doses of midazolam to prevent emergence agitation in children given 5 min before extubation. Seventy-five ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) Physical Status I–II patients aged 2–14 years who were scheduled for elective surgeries under general anesthesia were included in the study. Patients in the study groups were randomized into three groups 25 in each group; group P (propofol of 0.5 mg/kg iv), group ML (midazolam low dose of 0.03 mg/kg iv), and group M (midazolam of 0.05 mg/kg iv) given 5 min before extubation. The primary objective was to study the effect of propofol and two different doses of midazolam for the prevention of emergence agitation in children. The secondary objective was to observe the complications like bronchospasm, laryngospasm, persistent cough, and desaturation in pediatric patients. Results The time taken for emergence from anesthesia after surgery in the propofol group was 5.11 ± 1.223 min and in the group midazolam low dose and midazolam time taken was 8.53 ± 2.326 min and 12.45 ± 2.145 min, respectively, and was found to be statistically significant. The incidence of delirium observed with a Cole score of >3 was seen in 14 (56%) patients in group P, 7 (28%), and 6 (24%) patients of groups ML and M, respectively. Conclusions Midazolam in low doses given before extubation is effective in preventing the emergence delirium during the postoperative period in pediatric patients without delay in recovery during general anesthesia.