Comparison of Safety and Efficacy of Dexmedetomidine versus Propofol Sedation for Elective Awake Fiber-optic Intubation

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of dexmedetomidine versus propofol as a sedative modality for awake fiber-optic intubation (AFOI) in elective patients with anticipated difficult intubation. Materials and Methods: This randomized prospective study was conducted on 90 patients (Group D and Group P; n = 45) who had undergone AFOI for anticipated difficult airway. Group D received intravenous (IV) dexmedetomidine and Group P patients received IV propofol, until they were adequately sedated. Sedation was measured by Bispectral index© and Ramsay Sedation Scale. Airway blocks were given to all patients undergoing awake fiber-optic intubation. Intubation comfort scores, airway obstruction scores, and hemodynamics were recorded in all patients. Results: Sedation level was comparable in both the groups. Intubation time was less in Group D than Group P (119.06 ± 16.51 s vs. 126.67 ± 18.19 s; P < 0.05). The intubation score for both cough and vocal cord opening was better in the dexmedetomidine group than the propofol group (P = 0.6). There were significant incidences of airway obstruction and hypoxia in Group P compared to Group D (P < 0.05). Significant fall in mean arterial pressure (MAP) was seen in Group P during drug infusion which continued till fiber-optic bronchoscopy (P < 0.05). MAP changes during intubation were similar during intubation in both the groups (P = 0.18). Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine is a better alternative for achieving optimal sedation during AFOI.