Dexmedetomidine to enable MRI scanning in a patient with airway compromise. Issue 2 (28th October 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Scott‐Warren, Victoria; Sebastian, Joseph; Eadsforth, Peter
• Is Part Of: Anaesthesia cases. Volume 2:Issue 2(2014)
• Page Start: 71
• Page End: 74
• Publication Date: 2014-10-28
• Subjects: 617.9605
• DOI: 10.21466/ac.DTEMSIA.2014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2396-8397

Abstract

Summary: We present the case of an obese gentleman with airway compromise due to a large tumour within the left thoracic inlet, who required a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to plan further treatment. He was profoundly claustrophobic and required sedation in order to undergo the scan. We describe the use of dexmedetomidine supplemented with a small amount of midazolam to successfully sedate the patient whilst avoiding respiratory depression and obtundation of airway reflexes associated with higher doses of midazolam or propofol sedation.