Thanks for the D2D. Gastroscopy is usually performed under moderate or ‘conscious’ sedation. This is a state where patient is ‘put to sleep’ or sedated, but can be respond purposefully when called or touched. The medication is given through an intravenous line, and I adjust the dose accordingly to achieve the desired state of sedation.
This way, I ensure that just enough sedation is given, and I avoid the side effects and complications of the medication. Most of my gastroscopy procedures are completed within 15 minutes, so the total dose of medication I give is low. Hence, the sedation is safe and wears off quickly, allowing patients to return to normal activities quickly.
With effective sedation, gastroscopy is a painless procedure. Patients are comfortable throughout the procedure, and the gag reflux is usually not elicited.
After the gastroscopy, 20-40% of patients may complain of minor symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, bloating, nausea, headache and sore throat. These usually resolve the next day.
Less than 10% of patients complain of such symptoms, and mostly after complex or advanced procedures. Over 95% of my patients are fully awake and back to normal activities within the hour.
