Patient Safety and Anesthesia Considerations for Office-Based Otolaryngology Procedures

Office-based otolaryngology procedures provide a safe and efficient alternative to the traditional operating room. Physicians are responsible for knowing their state regulations and subspecialty guidelines. Although the clinic setting has fewer regulations than hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers, the clinic has the same standards as a hospital with respect to emergency equipment, trained personnel, protocols, and safety measures. Sedation occurs along a continuum; it is impossible to predict a patient's response to sedation. Otolaryngologists performing office-based sedation must be prepared to rescue with airway and advanced life support in the event that the sedation level encountered is deeper than expected.