What are the risks of Propofol sedation like Antonio's case?

Prolonged Propofol sedation can lead to serious complications, including Propofol-Related Infusion Syndrome and acute kidney injury, potentially resulting in death.

Why is a coroner concerned about Propofol use in Leeds?

The coroner is concerned because there are no national guidelines for Propofol use, increasing the risk of preventable deaths like that of 15-year-old Antonio Galisi-Swallow.

Has Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust changed its Propofol guidelines?

Yes, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust has devised and implemented new guidelines for short-term Propofol sedation in children and young people.

Home / Health / Teen's Death Spurs Call for National Propofol Rules

Teen's Death Spurs Call for National Propofol Rules

9 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A 15-year-old died from continuous Propofol sedation.
Coroner warned of risks due to lack of national guidelines.
New trust guidance could have prevented the teenager's death.

Teen's Death Spurs Call for National Propofol Rules

A coroner has officially raised alarms about the lack of national guidelines governing the use of the potent sedative Propofol. This concern emerged following the tragic death of 15-year-old Antonio Galisi-Swallow in October 2021.

Antonio died at Leeds General Infirmary after receiving a continuous infusion of Propofol for six days. An inquest concluded that his death was a direct result of the sedative's effects. The hospital trust has since implemented new internal guidelines, which an expert witness suggested could have saved Antonio's life.

Coroner Oliver Longstaff formally noted his concerns to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), emphasizing the potential for further preventable deaths. Antonio's family described his demise as traumatic and avoidable, highlighting a critical need for robust national oversight in the administration of such powerful medications.