Target-controlled infusion with propofol for neuro-anesthesia

Propofol is an intravenous anaesthetic agent, which presents interesting features for its use in neuro-anaesthesia: it is a powerful hypnotic that does not increase the intracranial pressure. The delay of recovery is short even after several hours of continuous infusion. This is essential for a fast neurologic examination. Continuous infusion should be preferred to bolus in order to prevent hypotension and decrease of the cerebral perfusion pressure. Target-controlled infusion models based on effect site concentrations are now available through several softwares. This technique appears especially useful for awake craniotomy and functional neurosurgery. The level of consciousness is easily fixed between deep anaesthesia and light sedation permitting to ask the patient to move following orders. A sedation controlled by the patient himself is even possible. (C) 2004 Elsevier SAS. Tous droits reserves.