Propofol as an induction agent for endotracheal intubation can cause significant arterial hypotension in preterm neonates

Summary Background: Propofol is gaining increasing popularity as induction agent for pediatric endotracheal intubation. Recently, propofol has been described for the first time as induction agent for endotracheal intubation in preterm neonates. Propofol seemed to be efficient, safe and ideally suited for the INSURE (Intubation SURfactant Extubation) procedure in preterm neonates. The purpose of this study was to document intubating conditions, vital signs, extubation times and outcome in preterm neonates receiving propofol as induction agent for the INSURE procedure. Patients and Methods: Preterm neonates with a gestational age of 29–32 weeks and respiratory distress were eligible for INSURE with propofol if their postnatal age was