Dexmedetomidine-ketamine Combination Versus Fentanyl-midazolam During Bronchoscopy

Sedation during flexible bronchoscopy (FB) should maintain an adequate respiratory drive, ensure maximum comfort for the patient, and warrant that the objectives of the procedure are achieved. Nevertheless, the optimal sedation method for FB has yet to be established. This study aimed to compare the standard recommended combination of midazolam-fentanyl (MF) with that of dexmedetomidine-ketamine (DK) for patient sedation during FB. Patients subjected to FB were randomly assigned to a DK (n=25) and an MF group (n=25). The primary outcome was the rate of critical desaturation events (arterial oxygen saturation \<80% with nasal oxygen supply 2 L/min). Secondary outcomes included sedation depth, hemodynamic complications, adverse events, and patient and bronchoscopist satisfaction.