Ketamine-Assisted Intravenous Sedation with Midazolam: Benefits and Potential Problems

A review of 134 cases of ketamine-induced intravenous sedation was undertaken. It was concluded that (1) whereas properly titrated midazolam with low-dose ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) can provide almost complete absence of behavioral problems and complete analgesia, transient oxygen desaturation may be seen, and (2) the induction phase of ketamine is an opportunity for the surgeon to rehearse mask ventilation.