Application of remifentanil combined with low-dose propofol in the elderly undergoing gastroscopy

Objective To evaluate the outcomes of anesthesia with remifentanil and low-dose propofol for gastroscopy in the elderly.Methods A total of 348patients aged 65-100years old was equally randomized into two groups of R(anesthesia maintenance with remifentanil 4μg/min pumping) and P(anesthesia maintenance with propofol 4mg/min pumping).The gastroscopy time,amounts of remifentanil and propofol used,and anesthesia-related indicators were compared between two groups. Results The patients were all satisfactory to the process of gastroscopy.The incidence rates of severe circulatory and respiratory depression were lower in group R than those in group P(P0.05).But the incidence of postoperative memory about the process of gastroscopy was higher in group R than that in group P(P0.05).Conclusion Remifentanil combined with low-dose propofol can be used safely and effectively in the elderly undergoing gastroscopy.