Steady-state trumps accuracy: target-controlled infusion as a gain switch.

Target-controlled infusion (TCI) is a mature technology that enables the delivery of intravenous anaesthetics in the concentration domain. The accuracy of the pharmacologic models used by TCI systems is imperfect, especially regarding pharmacodynamic predictions. This shortcoming of TCI devices is not critical.

Pro-Con Debate: Should All General Anesthesia Be Done Using Target-Controlled Propofol Infusion Guided by Objective Monitoring of Depth of Anesthesia?

In this Pro-Con commentary article, we discuss whether all general anesthesia should be done using target-controlled propofol anesthesia guided by monitoring of depth of anesthesia. This is an ongoing debate since more than 25 years, representing a scientific, cultural as well as geographical divide in the anesthesia community. The Pro side argues that total intravenous anesthesia causes less postoperative nausea and higher patient satisfaction than anesthesia using volatile anesthetics.