Abstract
Introduction: The use of endovascular therapy（EVT）for patients with peripheral artery disease（PAD）has spread because of its lower invasiveness, but treatment can be time-consuming and is often painful. In addition, sedatives are commonly used to alleviate pain because repeated treatments may be required. However, the effects and safety of sedatives during EVT are unclear. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of sedatives during EVT.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data of consecutive patients with PAD who underwent EVT. The use of sedatives was at the operator’s discretion and the degree of distress of patients was evaluated using a face scale(FS) .
Results: Of the 93 consecutive patients, 78 received dexmedetomidine（dexmedetomidine: DEX）, but there was no significant difference in procedure background. Multivariate analysis revealed DEX use to be significantly associated with pain relief even after adjusting for age, gender, diabetes, renal failure, procedure time, and critical limb ischemia.
Conclusion: The use of DEX during EVT can reduce patient distress without prolonging the treatment time. Although the incidence of side effects was low, it is necessary to be familiar with them in order to respond appropriately.
