Age-Related Electroencephalographic Delta and Alpha Oscillations During Sedation with Target-Controlled Propofol
Yeonsu Kim1, Jiho Park2,3, Woosuk Chung2,4
1Department of Applied Artificial Intelligence, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 01811, Republic of Korea.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|May 14, 2025
Summary
This study shows that delta brain waves decrease with age during propofol anesthesia, while alpha waves remain stable, suggesting age-specific dosing is needed for anesthesia safety.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Neurophysiology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Previous research noted age-related decreases in delta and alpha power during propofol anesthesia.
- These findings were often confounded by lower propofol concentrations in older adults.
- This study addresses this by maintaining consistent effect-site concentrations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate electroencephalography (EEG) dynamics under propofol sedation using target-controlled infusion (TCI).
- To maintain consistent effect-site concentrations across different age groups.
- To identify age-related differences in EEG power spectra and connectivity.
Main Methods:
- A comparative observational study involving 44 patients (younger: 20-39 years; older: 50-69 years).
- EEG data were recorded from frontal electrodes, focusing on delta and alpha bands.
- Propofol effect-site concentration was standardized at 3.0 μg/mL using TCI.
Main Results:
- Despite standardized propofol concentrations, total drug delivery differed between age groups due to pharmacokinetic variations.
- Younger patients exhibited higher delta power, indicating an age-associated decline.
- Alpha power was stable, but older patients showed decreased frontal alpha synchronization, suggesting altered brain connectivity.
Conclusions:
- Delta power decreases with age even with standardized propofol levels; alpha power remains consistent, potentially indicating sedation depth.
- Age-related variations in delta power and alpha connectivity highlight the need for age-specific anesthesia dosing.
- Findings enhance understanding of neurophysiological responses to anesthesia across the lifespan.
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