EEG alpha/delta ratio at different propofol-induced sedation levels in children during procedural sedation

INTRODUCTION: The alpha-delta ratio (ADR) represents the relationship between alpha and delta waves and has emerged as a potential marker of hypnotic depth. However, the trajectory of ADR across pediatric age groups and hypnotic depths during propofol sedation has not been characterized. This study aimed to investigate ADR patterns after midazolam premedication plus propofol sedation across different age groups and hypnotic depths. METHODS: This post-hoc analysis from a prospective observational study at a tertiary PICU (October 2020-December 2022) included children aged 6 months to 17.9 years undergoing procedural sedation with propofol. EEGs were recorded using BrainTrend 2.0 monitors with the electrodes placed at Fp1, Fp2, and FpZ positions. Hypnotic depth was assessed using the Comfort Scale (CS) every 5 minutes. The ADR was calculated as relative alpha power divided by relative delta power. Age-stratified analyses were performed (