Dexmedetomidine versus Propofol: Is One Better Than the Other for MRI Sedation in Children?

Objective The aim of this article is to determine whether dexmedetomidine or propofol is better for MRI sedation in children. Design This study is a retrospective review of patients sedated with dexmedetomidine or propofol for MRI between July 2007 and July 2015. Dexmedetomidine group (group D) was administered a bolus of 2 µg/kg over 10 minutes followed by a 1 ug/kg/hour infusion. Propofol group (group P) received a bolus of 2 mg/kg over 2 minutes followed by 83 µg/kg/minute infusion. Results Of the 996 cases completed, 452 were in group P and 544 were in group D. Patients in group P were heavier and older than those in group D. All the patients except one in group D completed the procedures. Hypotension occurred in 59% in group P versus 4% in group D (89 ± 11.4 SBP vs. 103.80 ± 19.4; p < 0.05). Bradycardia was observed in 2.9% in group P versus 0.6% in group D. Apnea occurred in two patients in group D. Although procedure time was longer in patients receiving propofol versus dexmedetomidine (58.87 ± 28.17 vs. 45 ± 23.6; p < .05), the discharge time was significantly shorter (37. ± 12.30 vs. 92.61 ± 28.19; p < 0.05). Conclusion Dexmedetomidine appears to provide a useful alternative to propofol for MRI sedation with a longer recovery time, stable hemodynamics, and less reliable respiratory profile, while the propofol had the advantage of quicker onset and rapid recovery.