title: Effect of Propofol on Acid Reflux Measured with the Bravo pH Monitoring System.
abstract: Background/Aim. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of propofol on acid reflux as measured with the Bravo pH monitoring system. Methods. 48-hour pH tracings of 88 children were retrospectively evaluated after placement of the Bravo capsule under propofol. Comparisons between day 1 and day 2, as well as 6-hour corresponding segments from day 1 and day 2, were made. Results. The number of reflux episodes was significantly increased during the first six-hour period on day one as compared to day 2 (P = 0.006). The fraction of time the pH was <4 was also increased during this period, though it did not reach statistical significance. When comparing full 24-hour periods, there was no difference noted in either the number of reflux episodes or the fraction of time pH < 4 between day one and day two. Conclusion. Our data suggest an increase in gastroesophageal reflux during the postanesthesia period. This could be a direct effect of propofol, or related to other factors. Regardless of the cause, monitoring of pH for the first 6 hours following propofol administration may not be reliable when assessing these patients. Monitoring pH over a prolonged 48-hour time period can overcome this obstacle.
authors.affiliation: Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Stony Brook Long Island Children's Hospital, Health Science Center T11-080, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
authors.forename: Anupama
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Chawla
authors.forename: Eugenia
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Girda
authors.forename: Grace
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Walker
authors.forename: Frances
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Turcotte Benedict
authors.forename: Mila
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Tempel
authors.forename: Jeffrey
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Morganstern