Propofol decreases waste anesthetic gas exposure during pediatric bronchoscopy.

Objective: This study compared the anesthetic gas exposure and operating conditions during insufflation anesthesia with halothane-alone versus halothane-propofol in children undergoing direct laryngobronchoscopy.

Study Design: Forty-six children were enrolled in this randomized prospective study, with institutional review board approval and informed consent.

Methods: All children were anesthetized by halothane mask induction and anesthesia was maintained using spontaneous ventilation with insufflation. No muscle relaxants or opioids were used. In the halothane group, halothane was titrated as needed. In the propofol group, halothane was decreased to 1% inspired concentration and the propofol was titrated as needed to maintain spontaneous ventilation and a still patient. Trace anesthetic gases, hemodynamic stability, and operating conditions were measured.

Results: The groups were similar in age, weight, and bronchoscopy time. There was significantly less gas exposure in the propofol group (25 +/- 33 parts per million) versus the halothane group (66 +/- 97 ppm; P <.02). There was a trend toward earlier emergence in the halothane group (33 +/- 13 minutes) versus the propofol group (41 +/- 17 minutes). Postoperative stridor was common, occurring in 30% of children.

Conclusions: Insufflation anesthesia with spontaneous respiration provides excellent surgical conditions for laryngobronchoscopy. The addition of propofol resulted in fewer airway complications (P =.047). Although the addition of propofol significantly decreased anesthetic gas exposure in the operating room, both techniques resulted in operating room pollution that exceeded the maximum levels of 2 ppm per hour recommended by the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).