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Myoclonic movements following induction of anesthesia with propofol: a case report

Sasikaan Nimmaanrat1

  • 1Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand. snimmaanrat@yahoo.com.au

Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet Thangphaet
|March 8, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Propofol (an intravenous anesthetic) can paradoxically cause myoclonic movements in susceptible patients. This case highlights the need for caution when using propofol for anesthesia induction.

Area of Science:

  • Anesthesiology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Propofol is a widely used intravenous anesthetic agent known for its sedative and hypnotic effects.
  • While generally safe, rare adverse events associated with propofol administration have been reported since its introduction.

Observation:

  • A case report details a 1-year-old boy undergoing adenotonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnea.
  • The patient exhibited myoclonic movements during the induction of anesthesia with propofol.

Findings:

  • Despite propofol's known anticonvulsant properties, this case illustrates its potential proconvulsant effect in specific circumstances.
  • The myoclonic movements ceased upon administration of isoflurane, and the patient recovered without neurological deficits.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should be aware of the potential for propofol to induce abnormal movements in susceptible individuals.
  • Caution or avoidance of propofol may be warranted in certain patient populations or clinical scenarios to mitigate this risk.
Abstract

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