Visual Distraction During Sleep Induction with Propofol in Pediatric Patients - Can Cartoon Watching Influence the Sedative Dose?

Background In general anesthesia, cartoon watching and playing video games reduce anxiety in children. It is unknown whether watching a video in the intervention room has a similar effect, and therefore is able to reduce sedative doses in children undergoing small medical procedures. Aim of this prospective study was to determine the effect of watching a standardized cartoon immediately before and during sleep induction for deep sedation on consumption of propofol in children. Patients and Methods 50 children aged 2-14 years undergoing deep sedation were randomly assigned to 2 groups: (A) watching or (B) not watching a standardized videoclip during sleep induction with propofol. The achievement of predefined sedation depth was objectified by measuring Comfort Score (aim 10-14) and Bispectral Index (aim 50-60). Results The median sleep induction dose of propofol did not differ in both groups (A: 1.76 (0.62-4.37) mg/kg; B: 1.37 (0.66-5.26) mg/kgKG; p=0.65). Cartoon watching was associated with shorter sleep onset latency (A: 120 (60-480)s; B: 240 (40-600)s; p=0.043). Subgroup analysis reveals this especially for school children and girls. In both groups no complications occurred. Conclusion Children watching a standard cartoon during sleep induction for deep sedation have a shorter sleep onset time but sedative dose is not reduced.