Propofol versus remifentanil sedation for elective gastroscopy: a randomized controlled trial

Propofol and remifentanil are widely used for elective gastroscopy sedation. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to compare their safety profiles, patient-reported recovery quality, and endoscopist satisfaction.

This single-center randomized controlled trial enrolled 88 adults (American Society of Anesthesiologists I-III) undergoing elective gastroscopy, allocated 1:1 to propofol (Group P, n=44) or remifentanil (Group R, n=44). Sedation depth was standardized using the Bispectral Index (target 60-80) and Ramsay Sedation Scale (target 2-3). The primary outcome was the Quality of Recovery-15 score at 30 min post-procedure; secondary outcomes included complication incidence, awakening time, and endoscopist satisfaction.

Quality of Recovery-15 scores were comparable (median 140 vs. 140; median difference 0, 95%CI -1.0 to 1.0; p=0.95). Total complication incidence was 0% in Group P versus 61.4% in Group R (p<0.001), comprising bradycardia (27.3%), postoperative nausea and vomiting (20.5%), and desaturation (13.6%). Awakening time was shorter in Group R (3 vs. 60 s; p<0.001). Endoscopist satisfaction was significantly higher in Group P (90.9 vs. 56.8% excellent scores; p=0.003).

Despite comparable patient-reported recovery quality, propofol was associated with substantially fewer perioperative adverse events (0 vs. 61.4%) and higher endoscopist satisfaction, supporting its preferential use in routine elective gastroscopy sedation.

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT07336628. Registered January 2, 2026.