Ketamine-based ICU sedation and patient-centered outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of mechanical ventilation duration, ICU length of stay, and delirium.
J Crit CareMay 24, 2026 (epub)
Rushi Patel, Jacob Thompson, Belal Elsayed et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of ketamine-based sedation on ICU outcomes in 903 patients. It found that ketamine significantly reduced ICU length of stay (MD: -0.86; 95% CI: -1.51, -0.22) and delirium incidence (OR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.43-0.72) compared to standard sedation, although mechanical ventilation duration did not show a significant difference.
Key findings
- Ketamine-based sedation significantly reduced ICU length of stay by 0.86 days.
- Delirium incidence decreased significantly with ketamine sedation (OR: 0.55).
- Mechanical ventilation duration trended shorter in the ketamine group but was not statistically significant.
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of sedation strategies on ICU outcomes is crucial for improving patient care. The findings suggest that ketamine may enhance recovery by reducing delirium and length of stay, which are important factors in critical care management.