The effect of pre-procedure anxiety on sedative requirements for sedation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy

Sedation for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, commonly used for diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, has been increasing widespread. Sedative agent requirements during sedation or anesthesia can be affected by many factors such as age and sex. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of pre-procedural anxiety levels on sedative requirements during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

300 patients between the ages of 18-70 years were studied. Baseline anxiety levels were measured before the procedure using Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) form X1. Propofol was administered to have BIS values between 65-85 during sedation. Doses of propofol, total procedure time, satisfaction of the patients and endoscopists and BIS values were recorded.

Pre-procedural anxiety was 44 (40-48 [20-70]). We found significant correlations between pre-procedure anxiety and the usage of propofol (mg, mg/kg, mg/kg/dk) at BIS values between 65-85, [respectively, (p= 0.451, p <0.001), (p= 0.455, p <0.001), (p= 0.428, p <0.001)]. No correlation was found between pre-procedure anxiety and procedural or sedation complications (respectively p= 0.111, p= 0.424 and p= 0.408, p= 0.363). We found significant negative correlations between pre-procedure anxiety and the satisfaction of the patients/endoscopist [respectively, (p= -0.477, p <0.001), (p= -0.495, p <0.001)].

Based on the results of this study, we suggest that there is a significant association between the pre-procedural anxiety levels and use of sedative drugs in patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.