Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Construction and Implantation of a Microinfusion System for Sustained Delivery of Neuroactive Agents.
Published on: March 18, 2008
Infusion pump delivers over-dosage of propofol as a result of missing syringe support
Christian Koch1, Christine Hollister, Peter H Breen
1Department of Anesthesiology, University of California-Irvine, Orange, California, USA.
Abstract:
We describe the malfunction of a common drug infusion pump. The syringe saddle was missing and allowed the syringe barrel to contact the pump case, which decreased the outward displacement of the syringe clamp. Then, the infusion pump falsely detected a smaller syringe size and consequently delivered an increased infusion rate and overdose of propofol to the patient. More commonly, an incorrectly mounted syringe may increase the outward displacement of the syringe clamp so that the infusion pump falsely detects a larger syringe size, with resultant less than expected infusion rate.
Related Concept Videos
Parenteral Anesthetics: Overview
One-Compartment Model: IV Infusion
The one-compartment model for IV infusion uses mathematical equations to describe the rate of change in drug quantity in the body. At steady-state or infusion equilibrium, the drug input...
Drug Accumulation During Multiple Dosing: Repetitive IV Injections
Drug Accumulation During Multiple Dosing: Intermittent IV Infusions
IV Infusion to Oral Dosing: Conversion Methods
Parenteral Drug Delivery Systems: Injectables, Implants, and Infusion Devices

