The efficacy of premixed nitrous oxide and oxygen for fiberoptic bronchoscopy in pediatric patients: a randomized, double-blind, controlled study

Abstract

Study objective: s: The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of premixed 50% nitrous oxide and oxygen on the quality of sedation and pain control during fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FB) in children.

Design: A prospective, randomized, double-blind study.

Setting: Pediatric pulmonary department in a pediatric tertiary university hospital.

Patients: One hundred five children aged 1 month to 18 years.

Interventions: Patients inhaled after sedation and local anesthesia either premixed 50% nitrous oxide and oxygen (nitrous oxide group) or premixed 50% nitrogen and oxygen (control group) during FB.

Measurement and results: The rate of failure was significantly greater in the control group (62%) than in the nitrous oxide group (21%, p = 0.00003). The efficacy of premixed 50% nitrous oxide and oxygen was also demonstrated with higher satisfaction scores (p = 0.000001), lower Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scores (p = 0.002), better visual analog scale ratings (p = 0.03), and improved behavior scores. Side effects were minor and similar in both groups.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates the improved efficacy of sedation, pain control, and safety of premixed 50% nitrous oxide and oxygen for FB in children.