Cystoscopy, as with other endoscopic procedures, is a fearful and painful for the majority of patients. To this reduce fear, pain and discomfort, the routine administration of sedative drugs, such as midazolam and propofol, is widely accepted for a gastrointestinal endoscopy. There have also been some studies on midazolam anesthesia during cystoscopy. However, the effects and safety of propofol anesthesia during cystoscopy have not been established. Therefore, the effects and safety of propofol anesthesia during cystoscopy were investigated in this study.

200 male patients were divided into 2 groups: Group A consisted of 80 patients sedated using 1mg/kg propofol IV, and group B consisted of 120 patients who received normal saline IV instead of propofol. All patients received 90mg diclofenac IM for pain control. There were no significant differences in the ages and weights between the two groups. The vital signs and oxygen saturation were monitored before, during and after the cystoscopy. The degree of pain and satisfaction of the patients and urologist were measured.

The pain scales were significantly reduced in group A compared to group B. Group A patients and the operator were also significantly more satisfied than those in group B. Although the blood pressure, pulse rate or respiratory rate changed during the cystoscopy, they were not clinically significant and there was no need for additional treatment. 12 patients in group A showed temporary hypoxia; however, they were treated with oxygen administration and recovered within several minutes.

Propofol anesthesia during cystoscopy can be performed safely and effectively as an outpatient procedure, as long as there is adequate preparation and monitoring.