Sedation in digestive endoscopy: the Athens international position statements

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Anesthesiology
• Medical Jurisprudence

Background:

• Existing guidelines for sedation in endoscopy lack international expert consensus.
• This study aimed to identify consensus and dissent among global experts on sedation practices in digestive endoscopy.

Framework:

• Thirty-two position statements on sedation in endoscopy were reviewed.
• International experts from gastroenterology, anesthesiology, and medical jurisprudence participated.
• Consensus was determined through open polling after evidence-based presentations.

Implementation:

• Sedation enhances patient tolerance and compliance during endoscopic procedures.
• Patients should be offered the choice of sedation or no sedation whenever feasible.
• Routine monitoring of vital signs, consciousness, and pain is recommended.
• Trained endoscopists and nurses can safely administer propofol to low-risk patients.

Implications:

• Despite varying national standards, significant agreement exists on key aspects of endoscopic sedation.
• Findings support the development of more harmonized international practice standards for sedation in digestive endoscopy.