[Propofol in pediatric anesthesia].

Administration of propofol in paediatric anaesthesia is relatively recent. Cardiovascular effects are minimal. Respiratory depression observed is in part in relation with the decrease of CO2 response. EEG tracing does not show spikes or "burst suppression" for usual doses. Pharmacokinetics are similar to those reported for young adults with the exception of a larger central compartment volume. Dosage depends particularly on age, injection speed and premedication. Propofol is often used for induction, halogenated agents taking over with a narcotic and a myorelaxant. Main disadvantages is pain on injection which are reduced by addition of lignocaine. Spontaneous movements during induction appeared chiefly with low doses. The most important advantage of propofol is the rapidity and the quality of recovery. Propofol has its place in paediatric anaesthesia and in addition sedation in intensive care unit is an new unexplored field.