Psychomotor Functions and Interval Timing in Patients Receiving Intravenous Anesthesia for Endoscopic Procedures: The Pilot Study

. The aim of this study was to evaluate two measures in a cognitive examination: psychomotor function and the perception of time (PT) in patients after intravenous anesthesia for endoscopic procedures. Material and Methods . We tested 23 anesthetized patients (Anesthesia Group, AG) and 17 not anesthetized patients (Control Group, CG). The Dufour Cross-Shaped Apparatus (DA) was used to assess quick reactions. Perception of time (PT) was measured for 1-, 2-, 5-, and 7-second intervals. The tests were performed before the anesthesia was administered and 1.5, 3, and 6 hours after the procedure was completed. Results . The intervals that were generated and the reproduced visual stimuli were shorter than the patterns. The reproduced 1- and 2-second auditory stimuli were longer than the patterns. The remaining reproduced auditory impulses were shorter than the patterns. Conclusions . In anesthetized patients, quick psychomotor reactions and the ability to time intervals are preserved 1.5 h and later after intravenous anesthesia for endoscopy.