Randomized clinical trial of Entonox ® versus midazolam-fentanyl sedation for colonoscopy

Abstract

Background: Intravenous sedation for colonoscopy is associated with cardiorespiratory complications and delayed recovery. The aim of this randomized clinical trial was to compare the efficacy of Entonoxc ® c(50 per cent nitrous oxide and 50 per cent oxygen) and intravenous sedation using midazolam-fentanyl for colonoscopy. Methods: Some 131 patients undergoing elective colonoscopy were included. Patients completed a Hospital Anxiety and Depression questionnaire, letter cancellation tests and pain scores on a 100-mm visual analogue scale before, immediately after the procedure and at discharge. They also completed a satisfaction survey at discharge and 24 h after the procedure. Results: Sixty-five patients were randomized to receive Entonoxc ®cand 66 to midazolam-fentanyl. Completion rates were similar (94 cversusc 92 per cent respectively; cPc = 0·513). Patients receiving Entonoxc ®chad a shorter time to discharge. They reported significantly less pain (mean score 16·7 cversusc 40·1; cP