Inhaled sedation shows several advantages compared to intravenous sedation:
- Volatile anaesthetics have a low metabolisation rate, as elimination occurs almost exclusively via the respiratory tract.
- Elimination is rapid and independent of liver or kidney function.
- The depth of sedation is very easy to control. This allows for rapid and easily predictable awakening, reduced opioid requirements and rapid recovery from sedation.
- Effective sedation with rapid and predictable awakening after sedation is of great benefit to both the patient and the medical staff.
- It allows faster recovery and facilitates the important rehabilitation after invasive ventilation.
The introduction of inhaled sedation in intensive care medicine represents a potential paradigm shift in the treatment of critically ill patients.
