ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of propofol and meperidine plus midazolam for sedation during esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) in children.MethodsData were collected prospectively and retrospectively from neurologically intact children (0.2–17.7 years of age) who underwent ambulatory diagnostic EGD during a 4-year period. Data were included from 155 consecutive patients receiving propofol with or without premedication with midazolam (PM group). One hundred five consecutive patients who received sedation with a midazolam plus meperidine combination served as a comparison (MM group). Outcome variables were: time required for induction of sedation, length of procedure, time for recovery, need for additional supportive measures, and need for physical restraint.ResultsThe onset of sedation was faster and the length of procedure and recovery were significantly shorter in the PM group as compared with the MM group (P< 0.01). Patients in the MM group required restraint more often than in the PM group. A higher dose of meperidine and midazolam was used in the prospective study. This led to deeper sedation but increased need for additional support.ConclusionsPropofol is safe and effective for facilitating EGD in children.