ABSTRACT
Background: This prospective study was conducted at Soba and Khartoum hospitals for assessment and evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of the combination of ketamine and propofol in a small doses "ketofol” in the same syringe for deep sedation\ analgesia in minor elective and emergency operations. Methods: Ninety ASA class І & ІІ patients with age ranging from 1 month up to 75 years who underwent minor operations, elective or planned emergency (non-life threatening conditions) were selected. They received ketofol in a dose ranging from 0.5 mg to 0.8 mg per kg per dose given intravenously. Incremental doses were given according to the duration of operation, using Ramsay Scale of Sedation (RSS). Success and side effects were assessed throughout the procedures. Results: Ketofolis a very effective as a sole agent for painful procedures with low incidence of side effects as emergence phenomena, hypoxia and transient apnea. Haemodynamic stability was reported. There was no nausea or vomiting was reported. Supplemental analgesia for increased pain was not required.The procedures included evacuation and curettage (D & C), abscess drainage, debridement, excisional biopsy of breast fibroadenoma, vaginal polypectomy, dressing, reduction & immobilization of fractures. Duration of operation ranged from 15 to 60 minutes. Conclusion: Ketofol is a good and safe option for deep sedation/analgesia for painful minor operations with minimal side effects.