Abstract: Objective To compare the efficacy and safety of the target controlled administration of sufentanil and intermittent sufentanil during awake craniotomy. Methods 40 patients were randomized into target controlled infusion of sufentanil group (n=20) and intermittent sufentanil group (n=20) and compared. Results The hemodynamic parameters were similar in the two groups. However, target controlled infusion of sufentanil was associated with significantly lower respiratory rate （P<0.05）, higher end tidal CO₂ （P<0.05）, and higher dosage of sufentanil （P<0.01）, compared with those of intermittent sufentanil. Conclusion Intermittent sufentanil infusion is associated with less respiratory depression than target controlled administration of sufentanil in awake craniotomy.

Key words: cerebral function zone, glioma, awake anesthesia, sufentanil, respiratory depression