Age, anemia, and obesity-associated oxygen desaturation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy

Oropharynx pain, discomfort, and economic impact of transesophageal echocardiography for planned radio-frequency catheter ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation: A cross-sectional survey study

Background

To survey the unmet medical needs associated with atrium thrombus screening in Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for planned radio-frequency catheter ablation (RFCA).

Methods

This cross-sectional survey study interviewed 300 patients who underwent their first TEE for planned RFCA. The surveyed information included patients' anxiety, oropharynx pain and discomfort, time expense, and patient satisfaction related to TEE examination. Patient preference for a new atrium thrombus screening technology, hospital length of stay (LOS) of RFCA, and hospital costs of RFCA in these surveyed patients were collected as well. Descriptive statistical methods were used to summarize the collected survey information.

Results

Of the 300 interviewed patients, 36.3% reported anxiety before TEE examination, 58.6% reported oropharynx pain related to TEE, and 76.2% reported oropharynx discomforts, mainly including foreign body sensation (54.3%), dry heaves (33.8%), nausea (31.9%), and bleeding (22.9%). Even though 62.3% were satisfied with TEE, 84.3% preferred a new technology to replace TEE. Conducting outpatient TEE took more wait time (4.4 days vs. 0.1 days, p = 0.016) but led to significantly shorter hospital LOS (3.8 days vs. 6.4 days, p < 0.001) and significant lower hospital costs for RFCA (¥74,097 vs. ¥85,843, p < 0.001) than conducting inpatient TEE.

Conclusions

Most AF patients experienced oropharynx pain and discomfort during or after TEE. Although more than half of AF patients were satisfied with TEE, most AF patients preferred a new technology to replace TEE for atrium thrombus screening. TEE was associated with economic impact on RFCA irrespective of TEE conducting settings.

Efficact of Supplemental Oxygen During Procedural Sedation and Analgesia in Elderly Patients in the Emergency Department

BACKGROUND

The use of supplemental oxygen (SO) for procedural sedation and analgesia (PSA) is recommended in many guidelines, but the evidence of SO for the elderly is limited.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to compare the incidence of hypoxia with or without SO in PSA for the elderly patients.

METHODS

We prospectively collected data on all patients undergoing PSA in the emergency department (ED) from May 2017 through December 2021. These data are from the Japanese Procedural SedaTion and Analgesia Registry. We included all elderly patients (65 years and older) who received PSA in the ED. We performed propensity score analysis for inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) to balance the baseline characteristics. The primary outcome was the incidence of hypoxia (SpO2 < 90%), and the secondary outcome was the incidence of bag-valve mask ventilation.

RESULTS

Among 1465 patients in the registry, we included 816 (55.7%) patients in the analysis. After propensity score method for IPTW, the distributions of confounders were closely balanced between the two groups. The incidence of hypoxia was significantly lower in the SO group compared with the non-SO group (6.2% vs. 19.3%; difference -13.1%; 95% confidence interval [CI] -9.8 to -16.4; p < 0.001). SO was also associated with a lower incidence of bag-valve mask ventilation (5.2% vs. 15.4%; difference -10.2%; 95% CI -7.1 to -13.2; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In a propensity-matched analysis, SO was associated with a lower incidence of hypoxia in elderly patients during ED PSA.

Comparison of Sedation With Ketamine-Propofol Versus Propofol-Fentanyl for Elderly Patients Undergoing Prostate Biopsy: A Retrospective Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Procedural sedation is increasingly used for elderly patients, but there is no established ideal method for elderly patients who are prone to respiratory and circulatory depression. This study aims to investigate the association of respiratory complications and the combination of ketamine-propofol versus fentanyl-propofol in elderly patients undergoing prostate biopsy requiring deep sedation.

METHODS

This was a single-center, retrospective, observational study conducted from April 2020 to March 2021. We included male patients aged 65 years and older scheduled for prostate biopsy under procedural sedation. Ketamine-propofol and fentanyl-propofol were administered at the discretion of the anesthesiologist. The primary outcome was the need for assisted ventilation. The secondary outcome was the duration of oxygen saturation (SpO2) below 90%.

RESULTS

We enrolled 120 patients over 65 years, and 92 patients were included in the final analysis. The anesthesiologist administered an initial dose of ketamine and propofol of 1:1 to 1:4 of 1.0 mg kg-1 (interquartile range: 0.98 to 1.17) or administered an initial dose of fentanyl of 0.05 to 0.1 mg and a target-controlled infusion of propofol of 2.8 μg ml-1 (interquartile range: 2.0 to 3.0) followed by additional doses at the discretion of the anesthesiologist. Ketamine-propofol was associated with a reduced need for assisted ventilation and a shorter duration of SpO2 below 90% than propofol-fentanyl (95.7% vs. 4.3%, P < 0.05; 0.64 minutes vs. 0.17 minutes, P = 0.26).

CONCLUSIONS

Ketamine-propofol is associated with a significantly reduced need for assisted ventilation compared to propofol-fentanyl during procedural sedation and analgesia for procedures requiring deep sedation for the elderly.

Comparison of three sedation models for same-day painless bidirectional endoscopy: A multicenter randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND AIM

We investigated the most beneficial propofol sedation model for same-day painless bidirectional endoscopy (BDE).

METHODS

Asymptomatic participants scheduled for same-day painless BDE examination from October 2020 to September 2021 were randomized to three groups: sedated esophagogastroduodenoscopy followed by unsedated colonoscopy (Group A); sedated esophagogastroduodenoscopy followed by sedated colonoscopy (Group B); and sedated esophagogastroduodenoscopy followed by sedated insertion colonoscopy (Group C). Patient discomfort, colonoscopy performance, doses of propofol, cardiovascular stress, anesthesia resuscitation, and sedation-related adverse events were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 3200 participants were analyzed. Baseline demographics, patient discomfort, cecal intubation rate, adenoma detection rate and sedation-related adverse events were similar in the three groups. Propofol dose was the lowest in Group A (137.65 ± 36.865 mg) compared with Group B (177.71 ± 40.112 mg, P < 0.05) and Group C (161.63 ± 31.789 mg, P < 0.05). Decline in vital signs was most obvious in Group B during the procedure (P < 0.05). Recovery time was the shortest in Group A (5.01 ± 1.404 min) compared with Group B (9.51 ± 2.870 min, P < 0.05) and Group C (5.83 ± 2.594 min, P < 0.05); discharge time was the shortest in Group A (3.53 ± 1.685 min) compared with Group B (11.29 ± 5.172 min, P < 0.05) and Group C (6.47 ± 2.338 min, P < 0.05). Adenomas per positive patient of Group A (2.29 ± 1.055) and Group C (2.28 ± 0.931) were more than that in Group B (2.11 ± 0.946, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Sedated esophagogastroduodenoscopy followed by unsedated colonoscopy is the superior model for same-day painless BDE with the benefits of satisfactory patient comfort, reduced sedation dose, less cardiovascular stress, faster recovery, shorter discharge time and high colonoscopy quality.

Patient characteristics and procedural outcomes of moderate sedation for endoscopic procedures in patients with obesity: A retrospective, propensity score-matched study

Background  Endoscopic procedures are performed commonly with moderate sedation. Obesity can pose a challenge in its safe administration. This study was aimed at assessing outcomes of endoscopy procedures performed with moderate sedation in obese patients. Patients and methods  This was a retrospective study of patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and/or colonoscopy with moderate sedation from July 17, 2017 to December 31, 2019. Demographics, comorbidities, outpatient medications and procedure-related outcomes (procedure time, recovery time, cardiopulmonary adverse events, 7-day post-procedure hospitalization, cecal intubation time, withdrawal time, tolerance of moderate sedation and sedation medications administered) were compared for patient with and without obesity after propensity score matching. Standard statistical methods were used for analysis. Results  A total of 7601 procedures were performed with moderate sedation for 5746 patients. Propensity score matching identified 1360 and 1740 pairs of EGDs and colonoscopies with moderate sedation for patients with and without obesity. Recovery time was found to be shorter for obese patients undergoing EGD (OR: 0.989, 95 % CI: 0.981-.998; P  = 0.01). Obese patients did not differ from non-obese patients in any other procedure-related outcomes for EGDs or colonoscopies. Conclusions  Outcomes for endoscopy procedures performed with moderate sedation were noted to be similar between obese and non-obese patients. These findings suggest that moderate sedation can be used safely for endoscopic procedures in patients with obesity.

Clinical considerations in providing intravenous sedation with midazolam for obese patients in dentistry

The widespread prevalence of obesity continues to rise. Obesity and dental disease share common risk factors and so the demand for dental care for obese patients is escalating. For some of these patients, there is a corresponding need to be able to provide intravenous sedation safely when it is necessary and appropriate to do so. However, obesity often presents with multiple comorbidities and airway complexities, leading to more challenging management and potentially increased risk. The risk assessment process as well as patient monitoring and management strategies will be explored in this article. By reviewing the literature from dentistry and other medical specialties, we also aim to establish the potential benefit in administering supplemental oxygen and the use of capnography in monitoring this cohort of patients.

Advanced Endoscopic Evaluation of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Morbidly Obese Patients in a Rural Setting

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is a known risk factor for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Morbidly obese patients in rural areas are usually referred to the local surgeon for endoscopic evaluation. This situation poses significant challenges given the increased risk for perioperative complications due to anatomical and metabolic factors. This study aims to evaluate the safety of performing GERD diagnostic workup studies in a rural setting.

METHODS

Institutional review board approval was obtained for a retrospective chart review of patients who presented with GERD symptoms to a rural antireflux clinic between August 2015 and October 2020. Patients were included if their body mass index (BMI) was over 35 with comorbidities or over 40 kg/m² who underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with or without concomitant placement of wireless pH probe and/or functional luminal imaging probe.

RESULTS

A total of 117 patients met the inclusion criteria. There were 94 (80.3%) females and 23(19.7%) males. The average age was 56.0 ± 13.4 years. The average BMI was 40.4 (35-66.4). Proton pump inhibitor use was noted in 97/117 (82.9%) with an average duration of 12.0 ± 9.2 years. The average GERD-Health Related Quality of Life, Reflux Symptom Index and GERD Symptom Score (GERSS) were 29.8 ± 20, 24.5 ± 14.2 and 21.3 ± 15.4 respectively. There were no procedural complications. All the endoscopic examinations were successfully completed and patients were discharged.

CONCLUSION

Performing diagnostic studies for GERD for morbidly obese patients in critical access hospitals is safe. Patient selection, proper training and adequate preparation are critical prerequisites for good outcomes.

Could anaesthesia be a key factor for the good outcome of bone ablation procedures? A retrospective analysis of a musculoskeletal interventional centre

OBJECTIVE

To choose the best anaesthetic approach through the retrospective review of different bone ablation procedures.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We retrospectively evaluated 118 ablation procedures carried out in our institute over the last 30 months. Three different anaesthetic approaches were used: general anaesthesia, i.v. sedation/analgesia and loco-regional anaesthesia (brachial plexus block, spinal anaesthesia). The outcomes were evaluated based on three parameters: technical success, patient comfort (Scale 1-5) and operator comfort (Scale 1-5).

RESULTS

The 118 interventional procedures were carried out on 62 benign and 56 malignant bone lesions. The overall procedural success rate was 100%. Three cases were treated under general anaesthesia: patient comfort was 5/5 in all cases; operator comfort was 5/5 in one case, and 4/5 in two cases. Twenty-one patients underwent sedation/analgesia: in three patients with benign bone lesions, patient comfort was 1/5 and operator comfort 3/5; in two patients with malignant bone lesions, patient comfort was 3/5 and operator comfort 4/5. Ninety-four patients underwent loco-regional anaesthesia: patient and operator comfort was 5/5 in all cases.

CONCLUSION

Based on our experience, loco-regional anaesthesia is probably the best anaesthetic approach during bone ablation procedures. Benign bone lesions ablation are the more painful procedures.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

This is the first paper that systematically investigates about the best anaesthesiological support for IR procedures.

Prevalence of Endoscopic Findings Before Bariatric Surgery and Their Influence on the Selection of the Surgical Technique

PURPOSE

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) are the two most popular procedures performed. The decision of which technique is most appropriate depends on the surgeon's preferences and experience. However, several factors strongly influence the decision of the procedure performed, including gastrointestinal disorders or asymptomatic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGE) findings. This study aimed to describe the pathological endoscopic findings in morbidly obese patients undergoing preoperative routine UGE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database of all UGEs performed before bariatric surgery was performed. UGE was routinely performed to all the patients as part of the preoperative evaluation protocol.

RESULTS

A total of 790 patients were included. Surgical technique included 610 (77.2%) RYGB and 180 (22.8%) SG. Twenty-one asymptomatic patients presented esophagitis at UGE. In only seven patients (0.89%), the endoscopic findings of esophagitis had changed the initial surgical decision. The presence of ulcers or adenomatous or incompletely resected polyps was an indication for SG, to assure future endoscopic access in case it is needed. In 25 patients (3.17%), the initial operation would have been changed based on UGE findings.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative UGE allows the diagnosis of asymptomatic esophagitis related to gastroesophageal reflux disease and the identification of asymptomatic polyps and ulcers, with the potential ability for malignant transformation. In up to 3.17% of the cases, the endoscopic findings changed the operative strategy. As the complication rate associated with the procedure is low, we recommend the routine performance of preoperative UGE before bariatric surgery.

Echocardiography in the Era of Obesity

Patients with obesity are at increased risk for coronary artery disease and heart failure and often present with symptoms of dyspnea, fatigue, edema, or chest pain. Echocardiography is frequently used to help distinguish whether these symptoms are due to cardiac disease. Unfortunately, obesity has a significant impact on image quality because of signal attenuation. Ultrasound-enhancing agents may improve the detection of structural remodeling and subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in patients with obesity. Assessment of chamber sizes and cardiac remodeling in severely obese subjects must be interpreted with caution, however, as the current recommendations for indexing cardiac chamber sizes to body size may lead to false conclusions about chamber volumes or mass, particularly in settings in which weight is changing. As a result of increases in stroke volume and cardiac output, obesity may exacerbate hemodynamic compromise in obstructive structural or valvular disease. With regard to assessment of ischemic heart disease, stress echocardiography can effectively risk-stratify patients with obesity and may have advantages over other noninvasive modalities. In general, transesophageal echocardiography is safe in patients with obesity, although some precautions should be observed. Stress echocardiography using the transesophageal approach is an alternative for preoperative or ischemia evaluation in patients with suboptimal transthoracic views.

Safety and Efficacy of Moderate Sedation in Super Obese Patients Undergoing Lower and Upper GI Endoscopy: a Case-Control Study

PURPOSE

Obesity is a disease of increasing prevalence. There is minimal research on the safety of sedation for general endoscopic procedures among super obese patients (BMI ≥ 50). The aim of our study was to evaluate the safety of moderate sedation and endoscopic procedural outcomes for super obese patients in a case-control study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We completed an age and sex-matched case-control study comparing 132 super obese patients with 132 non-obese controls. We assessed intra-procedure adverse events, delayed adverse events, doses of sedation medication used, and procedure duration at a tertiary care setting.

RESULTS

The mean BMI for the obese cohort was 55.6 compared with 22.5 for the controls (P < 0.001). The mean intra-procedure fentanyl and midazolam dose was higher for the obese patients compared with the controls, fentanyl 180 mcg, midazolam 7.7 mg vs fentanyl 148 mcg, midazolam 6.4 mg, respectively (P < 0.001). There was a significantly higher percentage of brief intra-procedure hypoxia (oxygen blood saturation < 90%) for the obese patients compared with the controls, 5% vs 0% (P = 0.02). There was no difference in delayed adverse events with 2% of the cases and 2% of the controls having delayed adverse events (P = 1.0). Procedure completion rates were 100% for both cases and controls.

CONCLUSION

General endoscopic procedures can be safely and effectively performed in super obese patients with moderate sedation. Brief intra-procedure hypoxia more commonly occurs in super obese patients, and higher medication doses are required.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Increases the Risk of Cardiopulmonary Adverse Events Associated with Ambulatory Colonoscopy Independent of Body Mass Index

BACKGROUND

The relationship between body mass index (BMI) and cardiopulmonary adverse events (CAEs) for ambulatory colonoscopy is unclear.

AIM

To assess the association of BMI and CAEs associated with ambulatory colonoscopy.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort analysis of 418 patients who underwent outpatient colonoscopy at the Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center categorized as normal/overweight (BMI < 30), obese (BMI 30-34), or morbidly obese (BMI ≥ 35). Adjusted logistic regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

At least one CAE occurred in 46.4% of patients (220 events, 72.7% were hypoxia). The rate of CAEs (BMI < 30: 43.8%, BMI 30-34: 48.0%, BMI ≥ 35: 50.6%, p = 0.53) and rate of hypoxia (BMI < 30: 34.8%, BMI 30-34: 40.9%, BMI ≥ 35: 43.2%, p = 0.32) were numerically higher for obese and morbidly obese patients, but not statistically significant. Obese (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.70-1.73) and morbidly obese (OR 1.07, 95% CI 0.61-1.85) patients did not have an increased risk of CAEs after adjusting for age, ASA class, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and type of sedation. OSA was independently associated with an increased risk of CAEs (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.09-2.74, p = 0.02) after adjusting for BMI, age, ASA class, and type of sedation.

CONCLUSION

OSA confers a higher risk of CAEs independent of BMI and sedation type. Consideration of undiagnosed OSA is recommended for appropriate pre-procedure risk stratification. While not statistically significant in this study, there may be clinically significant increased risks of CAEs and hypoxia for patient with BMI > 30 that require further evaluation with larger studies.

Is Preoperative Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy in Obese Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery Mandatory? An Asian Perspective

BACKGROUND

The role of routine preoperative oesopha gogastroduodenoscopy (OGD) for all bariatric surgery candidates is controversial. We aim to investigate the prevalence of clinically significant OGD findings in a primarily Chinese obese population and identify factors that predict a normal screening OGD.

METHODS

Medical records of patients who underwent primary bariatric surgery in our centre from August 2002 to December 2014 were reviewed. OGD findings were classified into two groups: group 1 consisted of normal findings and abnormal findings that would not alter the surgical plan; group 2 consisted of lesions that might delay or alter the surgical procedure.

RESULTS

We identified 268 patients (169 female), of mean age 39.1 ± 10.8 years, mean baseline body weight 108.7 ± 6.1 kg and mean body mass index (BMI) 40.3 ± 6.1 kg/m² for analysis. Overall prevalence of abnormal OGD findings was 51.1 %, which included gastritis (32.5 %), hiatus hernia (17.9 %), duodenitis (8.6 %) and erosive oesophagitis (7.5 %); 27.2 % had group 2 lesions. Univariate analysis revealed older age (p = 0.016), use of NSAIDs (p = 0.004) and presence of reflux symptoms (p = 0.029) as significant risk factors of group 2 lesions. On multivariate analysis, use of NSAIDs (p = 0.015) and reflux symptoms (p = 0.039) remained significant predictive factors. In the low-risk subgroup (40 years and younger, without reflux symptoms or use of NSAIDs), the prevalence of group 2 abnormalities was 18.9 %.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant endoscopic abnormalities are common among obese Chinese patients which may delay or change the surgical plan. The negative predictive value in low-risk patients was not strong. We therefore recommend routine preoperative endoscopy for all patients.

Conscious sedation using dexmedetomidine for percutaneous transcatheter closure of atrial septal defects: A single center experience

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to determine safety and feasibility of conscious sedation using dexmedetomidine for transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) device closure.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective institutional review of transcatheter ASD device closure without endotracheal intubation over 18 months. The protocol included topical oropharyngeal anesthesia using lignocaine followed by dexmedetomidine bolus 1 μg/kg intravenously over 10 min and maintenance dose 0.2-0.7 μg/kg/h. Ramsay sedation score 2-3 was maintained. Patients were analyzed regarding demographic profile, device size, procedure time, anesthesia time, recovery time, hospital stay, and any hemodynamic or procedural complications.

RESULTS

A total of 43 patients with mean age 31.56 ± 13.74 years (range: 12-56 years) were analyzed. Mean anesthesia duration was 71.75 + 21.08 min. Mean recovery time was 7.6 ± 3.01 min. 16 females and one male patient required additional propofol with a mean dose of 30.8 ± 10.49 mg. No hemodynamic instability was noted. No patient required general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation. The procedure was successful in 93.02% of patients. Four patients developed atrial fibrillation. All patients were satisfied.

CONCLUSION

Conscious sedation using dexmedetomidine is a safe and effective anesthetic technique for percutaneous ASD closure.

Sedation for Bronchoscopy and Complications in Obese Patients

BACKGROUND

Bronchoscopy is a safe and minimally invasive diagnostic tool, but no studies have reported prospectively on sedation and outcomes in patients with objectively defined obesity.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the study is to determine if obese patients require more sedation or had more procedural complications during bronchoscopy under moderate sedation than non-obese patients.

METHODS

We evaluated complications and sedation requirements in non-obese versus obese patients, defined by multiple criteria including body mass index (BMI), neck circumference, abdominal height, and Mallampati scores.

RESULTS

Data were collected prospectively in 258 patients undergoing bronchoscopy under moderate sedation. By varying criteria, there were the following proportions of obese patients: 30% by BMI >30, 39% by neck circumference >40 cm, and 35% by abdominal height >22 cm in males and >20 cm in females. Sedative and analgesic dosing was not clinically significantly higher in obese patients than in non-obese patients. There was no difference in complications or procedural success based on obesity criteria. Hemoglobin oxygen desaturations occurred more often during bronchoscopy in patients with increasing Mallampati scores (p = 0.04), but this had no effect on bronchoscopy time or successful completion of the procedure. A subset of patients with previous polysomnogram-proven obstructive sleep apnea were more likely to have earlier termination of their procedure (15.8%) than patients with no diagnosed sleep apnea (2.3%; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

In this prospective assessment of patients with obesity, we found neither clinically significant differences in sedation needs nor increases in complications in obese versus non-obese patients using a variety of indices of obesity.

Sedation Challenges: Obesity and Sleep Apnea

This article reviews the data for diagnostic and uncomplicated therapeutic upper endoscopy, which show it is safe and effective to perform the procedure under moderate sedation with a combination of benzodiazepine and opioids. For more complex procedures or for superobese patients anesthesia support is recommended. Performing endoscopy in this population should alert providers to plan carefully and individualize sedation plans because there is no objective way to quantify this risk pre-endoscopically.

Usefulness of Acoustic Monitoring of Respiratory Rate in Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection

Aim. The study assessed the usefulness of a recently developed method for respiratory rate (RR) monitoring in patients undergoing endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) under deep sedation. Methods. Study subjects comprised 182 consecutive patients with esophageal cancer or gastric cancer undergoing ESD. The usefulness of acoustic RR monitoring was assessed by retrospectively reviewing the patients' records for age, gender, height, weight, past history, serum creatinine, RR before ESD, and total dose of sedative. Results. Respiratory suppression was present in 37.9% of (69/182) patients. Continuous monitoring of RR led to detection of respiratory suppression in all these patients. RR alone was decreased in 24 patients, whereas both RR and blood oxygen saturation were decreased in 45 patients. Univariate analysis showed female gender, height, weight, and RR before treatment to be significantly associated with respiratory suppression. Multivariate analysis showed RR before treatment to be the only significant independent predictor [odds ratio (OR) 0.83, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.73–0.95, and P = 0.006] of respiratory suppression. Conclusion. In this study, the difference in RR before treatment between patients with and without respiratory suppression was subtle. Therefore, we suggest that acoustic RR monitoring should be considered in patients undergoing ESD under sedation to prevent serious respiratory complications.

Patients With Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Require Increased Sedation During Upper Endoscopy

BACKGROUND & AIMS

After Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), many patients experience changes in metabolism that could affect the amount of sedative they require. We assessed whether patients who have vs have not received RYGB have different sedation requirements during esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD).

METHODS

In a retrospective study, we collected data from patients who had received RYGB (n = 200; mean age, 45 years; 188 women; body mass index [BMI], 34.0 ± 7.1 kg/m2) or had not (controls, n = 200; mean age, 45 years; 188 women; BMI, 34.1 ± 7.2 kg/m2) and underwent EGD under conscious sedation from 2005 through 2010; groups were matched for age, sex, and BMI. Sedative doses were compared by using the Student t test. Multivariate linear regression was used to identify factors associated with sedation dose. We performed a subgroup analysis of RYGB patients who underwent EGD before and after RYGB, comparing sedative doses with a paired t test.

RESULTS

Patients with RYGB were given 132.4 ± 40.4 μg fentanyl and 5.4 ± 1.5 mg midazolam, whereas controls received 108.6 ± 31.6 μg fentanyl (P < .001) and 4.3 ± 1.2 mg midazolam (P < .001). Increased time from RYGB, higher American Society of Anesthesiologists class, and therapeutic procedure were associated with higher doses of sedation (P < .05). Thirty-two patients underwent EGD before and after RYGB. Patients were given 95.0 ± 39.0 μg fentanyl before RYGB and 130.5 ± 41.3 μg fentanyl afterward (P < .05); they were given 4.0 ± 1.0 mg midazolam before RYGB and 5.5 ± 1.7 mg midazolam afterward (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with RYGB require larger amounts of fentanyl and midazolam during EGD than patients without RYGB, despite similar age, sex, and BMI. Among patients who underwent EGD before and after RYGB, levels of drugs required for sedation increased after gastric bypass, despite weight loss.

Significantly reduced hypoxemic events in morbidly obese patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy: Predictors and practice effect

Background:

Providing anesthesia for gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy procedures in morbidly obese patients is a challenge for a variety of reasons. The negative impact of obesity on the respiratory system combined with a need to share the upper airway and necessity to preserve the spontaneous ventilation, together add to difficulties.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective cohort study included patients with a body mass index (BMI) >40 kg/m² that underwent out-patient GI endoscopy between September 2010 and February 2011. Patient data was analyzed for procedure, airway management technique as well as hypoxemic and cardiovascular events.

Results:

A total of 119 patients met the inclusion criteria. Our innovative airway management technique resulted in a lower rate of intraoperative hypoxemic events compared with any published data available. Frequency of desaturation episodes showed statistically significant relation to previous history of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). These desaturation episodes were found to be statistically independent of increasing BMI of patients.

Conclusion:

Pre-operative history of OSA irrespective of associated BMI values can be potentially used as a predictor of intra-procedural desaturation. With suitable modification of anesthesia technique, it is possible to reduce the incidence of adverse respiratory events in morbidly obese patients undergoing GI endoscopy procedures, thereby avoiding the need for endotracheal intubation.

Risk of sedation for diagnostic esophagogastroduodenoscopy in obstructive sleep apnea patients

AIM

To investigate whether patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are at risk of sedation-related complications during diagnostic esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD).

METHODS

A prospective study was performed in consecutive patients with OSA, who were confirmed with full-night polysomnography between July 2010 and April 2011. The occurrence of cardiopulmonary complications related to sedation during diagnostic EGD was compared between OSA and control groups.

RESULTS

During the study period, 31 patients with OSA and 65 controls were enrolled. Compared with the control group, a higher dosage of midazolam was administered (P = 0.000) and a higher proportion of deep sedation was performed (P = 0.024) in the OSA group. However, all adverse events, including sedation failure, paradoxical responses, snoring or apnea, hypoxia, hypotension, oxygen or flumazenil administration, and other adverse events were not different between the two groups (all P > 0.1). Patients with OSA were not predisposed to hypoxia with multivariate logistic regression analysis (P = 0.068).

CONCLUSION

In patients with OSA, this limited sized study did not disclose an increased risk of cardiopulmonary complications during diagnostic EGD under sedation.

Pre-existing diseases of patients increase susceptibility to hypoxemia during gastrointestinal endoscopy

Hypoxemia is the most common adverse event that happened during gastrointestinal endoscopy. To estimate risk of hypoxemia prior to endoscopy, American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) classification scores were used as a major predictive factor. But the accuracy of ASA scores for predicting hypoxemia incidence was doubted here, considering that the classification system ignores much information about general health status and fitness of patient that may contribute to hypoxemia. In this retrospective review of clinical data collected prospectively, the data on 4904 procedures were analyzed. The Pearson’s chi-square test or the Fisher exact test was employed to analyze variance of categorical factors. Continuous variables were statistically evaluated using t-tests or Analysis of variance (ANOVA). As a result, only 245 (5.0%) of the enrolled 4904 patients were found to present hypoxemia during endoscopy. Multivariable logistic regressions revealed that independent risk factors for hypoxemia include high BMI (BMI 30 versus 20, Odd ratio: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.13–2.05; P = 0.0098), hypertension (Odd ratio: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.44–3.60; P = 0.0004), diabetes (Odd ratio: 2.37, 95% CI: 1.30–4.34; P = 0.005), gastrointestinal diseases (Odd ratio: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.21–2.60; P = 0.0033), heart diseases (Odd ratio: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.06–3.68; P = 0.0325) and the procedures that combined esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy (Odd ratio: 4.84, 95% CI: 1.61–15.51; P = 0.0292; EGD as reference). It is noteworthy that ASA classification scores were not included as an independent predictive factor, and susceptibility of youth to hypoxemia during endoscopy was as high as old subjects. In conclusion, some certain pre-existing diseases of patients were newly identified as independent risk factors for hypoxemia during GI endoscopy. High ASA scores are a confounding predictive factor of pre-existing diseases. We thus recommend that youth (≤18 yrs), obese patients and those patients with hypertension, diabetes, heart diseases, or GI diseases should be monitored closely during sedation endoscopy.

Safety of conscious sedation in patients with sleep apnea in a veteran population

OBJECTIVES

Due to the presumed higher risk of cardiopulmonary complications in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), many endoscopy centers consider OSA a contraindication to using conscious sedation. We evaluated the safety of conscious sedation during endoscopy for patients with OSA in a veteran population, and compared this to patients without OSA.

METHODS

Polysomnography studies were reviewed from 2004 to 2009 to identify 200 patients with OSA who had undergone endoscopy. Controls included the last 200 consecutive endoscopies in this institution for patients without OSA. Sixty-three upper endoscopies, 136 colonoscopies, and one enteroscopy were included in the OSA group. Sixty-five upper endoscopies, 133 colonoscopies, one sigmoidoscopy, and one endoscopic ultrasound comprised the control group. Data obtained included demographics, medications prescribed, and any complication noted in the procedure report.

RESULTS

No complications occurred in the control group. In the OSA group, a patient experienced oxygen desaturation during an upper endoscopy and required oxygen supplementation. The procedure was completed and did not require an extended stay in the endoscopy suite.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that endoscopy can be safely done in OSA patients using conscious sedation, and the complication rate is not significantly different than patients without OSA.

Sedation in the bariatric patient

Obesity is a significant health problem that has assumed epidemic proportions. A durable reduction in weight and improved morbidity and mortality have been realized with the introduction of various bariatric surgical procedures. It is unknown how safe the current practices of sedation for endoscopic procedures are in bariatric patients. Morbid obesity can result in pulmonary hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, and restrictive lung disease. This article explores these issues and how they may impact the risk profile of current standards for endoscopic sedation.

Analysis of oxygen saturations recorded during dental intravenous sedations: a retrospective quality assurance of 3500 cases

The death of a patient under sedation in New South Wales, Australia, in 2002 has again raised the question of the safety of dental sedation. This study sought answers to 2 questions: Can safe oxygen saturation levels (≥ 94%) be consistently maintained by a single operator/sedationist? Does the additional use of propofol, in subanesthetic doses, increase the risk of exposure to hypoxemia? Three thousand five hundred cases generated between 1996 and 2006 were randomly examined and divided into 2 subcohorts: 1750 patients were sedated with midazolam and fentanyl, and 1750 patients received propofol, in subanesthetic increments, in addition to midazolam and fentanyl. Initial sedation was established using midazolam and fentanyl in both subcohorts. The second subcohort received propofol during times of noxious stimulation. Patient exposure to 2 or more oxygen desaturations below 94% was uncommon. The variables that were significantly associated with low saturations were age, gender, and weight. Neither the dose of midazolam nor the additional use of propofol was a significant risk factor. ASA classification (I or II) was not a determinant of risk. The data, within the limitations of the study, showed that a single operator/sedationist, supported by a well-trained team of nurses, can consistently maintain safe oxygen saturation levels. The additional use of propofol did not increase exposure to hypoxemia.

A screening instrument for sleep apnea predicts airway maneuvers in patients undergoing advanced endoscopic procedures

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Among patients undergoing advanced endoscopy, unrecognized obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) could predict sedation-related complications (SRCs) and the need for airway maneuvers (AMs). By using an OSA screening tool, we sought to define the prevalence of patients at high risk for OSA and to correlate OSA with the frequency of AMs and SRCs.

METHODS

We enrolled 231 consecutive patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) (n = 176) and endoscopic ultrasound (n = 55). Propofol-based sedation and patient monitoring were performed by a nurse anesthetist and an anesthesiologist. A previously validated screening tool for OSA (STOP-BANG) was used to identify patients at high risk for OSA (score, > or =3 of 8; SB+) or low risk (SB-). AMs were defined as a chin lift, modified mask ventilation, nasal airway, bag-mask ventilation, and endotracheal intubation. SRCs were defined as any duration of pulse oximetry less than 90%, systolic blood pressure less than 90 mm Hg, apnea, or early procedure termination.

RESULTS

The prevalence of SB+ was 43.3%. The frequency of hypoxemia was significantly higher among patients with SB+ than SB- (12.0% vs 5.2%; relative risk [RR], 1.83; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.32-2.54). The rate of AMs was also significantly higher among SB+ (20.0%) compared with SB- (6.1%) patients (RR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.3-2.4). These rates remained significant after adjusting for American Society of Anesthesiologists class 3 or higher (RR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.28-2.2 for AMs; RR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.19-2.25 for hypoxemia). Each element of the STOP-BANG was reported more commonly in SB+ patients (P < .0001 for each comparison).

CONCLUSIONS

A significant number of patients undergoing advanced endoscopic procedures are at risk for OSA. AMs and hypoxemia occur at an increased frequency in these patients.

Assessment the effect of midazolam sedation on hypoxia during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of hypoxia related to midazolam sedation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. This single blind randomized placebo control clinical trial, carried out on 180 patients who referred to endoscopy clinic at Imam Khomeini Hospital for selective upper gastrointestinal endoscopy from April to July in 2008. Informed consents obtained from all participants. Patients under 18-years-old, obese, previous history of asthma, COPD and cigarette smoking were excluded. Arterial hemoglobin saturation controlled by finger probe pulse oximetry. After pharyngeal lidocaine spray, midazolam was administered intravenously in case group and patients in controlled group received placebo. Demographic characteristics and other variables were recorded in a questionnaire and data analyzed using SPSS software. Gastrointestinal disturbances and epigastric pain were major indications of endoscopies. The most common endoscopic diagnoses were deudonitis, esophagitis or gastroesophagial reflux. No patients had any serious episode of hypoxia and the incidence of mild hypoxia was not significant in both studied group (p = 0.823). There was no significant difference in arterial oxygen saturation recorded by the three endoscopists (p = 0.734). Our data showed that optimal dose of sedation had no hypoxia. So that, we recommend sedative endoscopy in patients without risk factors for hypoxia.

Preoperative gastrointestinal assessment before bariatric surgery

Obesity is a major health problem throughout the world. Bariatric surgery is frequently considered among the treatment options for the severely overweight, and surgically induced weight loss has become the best treatment for many morbidly obese people. A preoperative assessment to evaluate the suitability of a patient for a given operation and to clarify factors that may affect the outcome of a planned procedure should be carried out before the surgery. Preoperative evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract by a gastroenterologist before bariatric surgery yields important information that can lead to changes in planned treatments. This article discusses the factors that a gastroenterologist should assess before the surgery.

Procedural sedation and obesity: waters left uncharted

BACKGROUND

Moderate sedation during endoscopy may pose increased risks among obese patients.

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature that considers aspects of sedation within the obese population and to identify gaps in our knowledge.

DESIGN

Literature-based review.

RESULTS

There may be increased risks among obese patients undergoing moderate sedation. In particular, the presence of obstructive sleep apnea may identify a subset of patients at higher risk for complications.

LIMITATIONS

English language literature only.

CONCLUSIONS

Although obesity may be associated with increased risks of procedural sedation, future studies should better clarify such risks to better inform clinical decision making.

Risk factors for hypoxemia during ambulatory gastrointestinal endoscopy in ASA I-II patients

BACKGROUND

Most studies identify the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) classification as the most significant risk factor for hypoxemia. The risk factors operative within ASA I and II patients are not well defined. Therefore, we analyzed prospectively collected data to identify the risk factors of hypoxemia in such patients.

METHODS

A combination of a narcotic and benzodiazepine was used for sedation and oxygen was supplemented if hypoxemia (oxygen saturation <or=90%) developed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed and correlations estimated for predetermined clinical variables.

RESULTS

40 of 79 patients (51%) developed hypoxemia, which occurred more frequently in the obese (71%; 10/14) than the nonobese (46%; 30/65) group (P=0.08). On multivariate analysis, the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for developing hypoxemia were age >or= 60 years 4.5 (1.4-14.3) P=0.01, and incremental 25-mg doses of meperidine 2.6 (1.02-6.6) P = 0.04. Body mass index (BMI) significantly correlated with the number of hypoxemic episodes (rho 0.26, 95% CI 0.04-0.48, P=0.02).

CONCLUSION

In ASA I and II patients, BMI significantly correlated with the number of hypoxemic episodes, whereas age >or= 60 years and meperidine dose were significant risk factors for hypoxemia.

Cardiorespiratory changes during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy

OBJECTIVES

To determine the changes in oxygen saturation, blood pressure and heart rate during various endoscopic procedures and to find out the risk factors for these changes.

METHODS

Forty patients without cardiorespiratory disorders were recruited. Oxygen saturation, blood pressure and pulse rate were monitored during endoscopy using pulse oximeter and automated blood pressure monitor. These were recorded from baseline until 5 minutes after the procedure. The important variables, which were evaluated in relation to these changes, included age, gender, duration of the procedure and drug/dosages.

RESULTS

Baseline mean oxygen saturation was 96.8 +/- 1.55%. It decreased significantly to 94.53 +/- 3.30%(p= 0.002) during insertion of probe. Mild to moderate hypoxia was found in 19 (47.5%) patients. Severe hypoxia was found in 5 (12.5%) patients. The variables that reached statistical significance for desaturation were age greater than 50 years and duration longer than 27 minutes. Changes in pulse rate were significant post-sedation, during probe insertion, during scoping, at removal of probe and immediately post-procedure (p < 0.02). The mean change in systolic blood pressure was not significant throughout the procedure when compared to baseline, however 14 (35%) patients developed transient hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS

Mild to moderate hypoxia is common during endoscopic procedures and of no serious consequence. However severe hypoxia is less common. We recommend a non-invasive monitoring in patients with age greater than 50 years and procedure longer than 27 minutes.

The utility of upper endoscopy in patients with concomitant upper gastrointestinal bleeding and acute myocardial infarction

Patients who present with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) in the setting of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) may have suffered an UGIB that subsequently led to an AMI or endured an AMI and subsequently suffered a UGIB as a consequence of anticoagulation. We hypothesized that patients in the former group bled from more severe upper tract lesions. The aim of this study was to evaluate predictors for endoscopic therapy in patients who suffer a concomitant UGIB and AMI. Retrospective, single center medical record abstraction of hospital admissions from January 1, 1996-December 31, 2002. During the study period, 183 patients underwent an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) within 7 days of suffering an AMI and UGIB (AMI group N=105, UGIB group N=78). A higher proportion of patients in the UGIB group (41%) was found to have high-risk UGI lesions requiring endoscopic treatment compared to patients in the AMI group (17%; P < 0.004). UGIB as the inciting event and patients suffering from hematemesis and hemodynamic instability were significantly associated with requiring endoscopic therapy. Although predominantly diagnostic, endoscopic findings in the AMI group did alter the decision to perform cardiac catheterization in 43% of patients. Severe complications occurred in 1% (95% confidence interval, 0%-4%) of patients. We conclude that in patients suffering from concomitant UGIB and AMI, urgent endoscopy was most beneficial in patients with UGIB as the initial event and those presenting with hematemesis and hemodynamic instability. In patients without these clinical features, urgent endoscopy may be delayed, unless cardiac management decisions are dependent on endoscopic findings.

Safety of dobutamine stress transesophageal echocardiography in obese patients for evaluation of potential ischemic heart disease

The purpose of this study was to determine the safety of dobutamine stress transesophageal echocardiography (DS-TEE) in the evaluation of potential coronary artery disease in obese patients. Obese patients tend to have a higher prevalence of hypertension, coronary artery disease, and sleep apnea conditions that could potentially predispose to complications during endoscopic procedures such as DS-TEE. In addition, obese patients are more likely to have oxygen desaturation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Thus, the safety of DS-TEE in 90 obese patients (body mass index (BMI) > or = 27.5 kg/m2) and 86 nonobese patients (BMI < 27.5 kg/m2) was compared. Minor complications (i.e., complications of transient duration and requiring no or only simple intervention) occurred with almost equal frequency in the nonobese and obese groups (28% vs. 29%, P = ns). Transient hypotension was observed in 9% of the obese group compared to 22% in the nonobese group (P < 0.025). However, transient hypertension was noted in 20% of the obese patients compared to 6% in the nonobese group (P < 0.01). A major complication occurred in three obese patients (3.3%), which included hypotension, marked elevation of systolic blood pressure, or ventricular fibrillation. Four patients (4.7%, P = ns) of the nonobese group had a major complication, which included sustained ventricular tachycardia in one, hypertension in one, and hypotension in two patients. No deaths occurred in either group. Although obesity should remain a consideration in the risk assessment of whether or not to perform DS-TEE, when proper precautions are instituted DS-TEE appears equally safe in obese as compared to nonobese patients.

Predictive factors of oxygen desaturation of patients submitted to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography under conscious sedation

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Hypoxemia can occur during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography probably induced by the analgesia and sedation done. Moreover the patients prone position difficults the adequate ventilation. The hypoxemia and hypoventilation may not be noticed by nursing staff. A transversal study was used to investigate possible predictive factors of oxygen desaturation in sedated patients with midazolam associated to meperidine undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 186 patients were monitored with continuous pulse oximetry. Poisson regression was used to measure the independent effect of each factor adjusted for effects of each of the other factors. The variables studied were: age, gender, hematocrit and hemoglobin levels, scopolamine use, diagnostic or therapeutic exam, American Society of Anesthesiologists Scores (ASA), duration time of exam, sedative used midazolam in the average of 0.07 mg/kg and analgesic drug meperidine in the average of 0.7 mg/kg that was titrated according patients reaction.

RESULTS

No desaturation was found in 113 (60.8%) patients, mild desaturation (SpO2 <92%) in 22 (11.8%) and severe desaturation (SpO2 <90%) in 51 (27.4%). This desaturation was recognized only by the pulse oximeter. There was no need to use any antagonist drug of the sedatives in patients who had severe desaturation, they were just stimulated to deep breaths and oxygen was offered at 2 liters per minute via catheter. The variables found to predict desaturation were age >60 years old and ASA score III. The duration of exam was barely significant for desaturation.

CONCLUSIONS

The variables of age of 60 years old or more, and ASA III score are identified as increased risk for desaturation for patients who undergo endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography under conscious sedation. Long time of exam suggests the patient oxygen desaturate. Such patients require very close monitoring to desaturation and hypoventilation by the assistants and nursing staff alerting to respiratory depression. The use of pulse oximeter and asking for deep breaths during the exam helps to diminish such risks.

Sedation and Analgesia in the Interventional Radiology Department

Administration of sedation and analgesia in the interventional radiology suite is often necessary during painful diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Although sedative and analgesic agents are generally safe, catastrophic complications related to their use can occur, often as a result of incorrect drug administration or inadequate patient monitoring. The incidence of adverse outcomes related to provision of sedation and analgesia can be reduced with improved understanding of the pharmacology of these medications, by providing adequate monitoring to sedated patients, by recognizing patients who are at increased risk of experiencing an adverse drug reaction, and by early and appropriate management of complications.

Safety of transesophageal echocardiography in patients who are obese

Patients with obesity tend to have a higher incidence of hypertension, coronary artery disease, and sleep apnea, conditions that could potentially predispose to complications during transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). In addition, patients who are obese are more likely to have oxygen desaturation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. However, the safety of TEE in a large cohort of patients with obesity has not been reported. Thus, the safety of TEE in 341 patients who were obese (body mass index >/= 27.5 kg/m(2), mean 41.0 +/- 10.3) and in 323 control patients who were not obese was compared. Minor complications (ie, complications of a transient duration and requiring no or only simple intervention) occurred with equal frequency in the control and obese groups (16.5% vs 16.7%, P = not significant). Transient oxygen desaturation did not differ between the control versus obese group (2.5% vs 3.8%, P = not significant), but was more common (6.7%) in a subgroup (n = 150) of patients who were morbidly obese as compared with control patients (P <.05). Transient hypotension was observed in 3.5% of the obese group compared with 7.4% in the control group (P <.05). However, transient hypertension was noted in 10.6% of the patients who were obese compared with 6.5% in the control group (P =.072). A major complication occurred in 2 patients with obesity, one who required vasopressor medication for persistent hypotension and another needing pharmacologic rate control of atrial fibrillation. One patient in the control group had provoked supraventricular tachycardia and angina. No deaths occurred in either group. Subjective tolerance for the procedure was similar (P = not significant) in both groups with 84% of patients with obesity having good to excellent tolerance compared with 88% in that of the control group. Thus, TEE can be safely performed in patients who are obese.

Does quantitative serologic testing for Helicobacter pylori predict peptic ulcer disease in cirrhosis?

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter Pylori is strongly associated with peptic ulcer disease. A correlation between high IgG serum antibody concentrations and a clinical diagnosis has been reported. It has been recognized that peptic ulcer disease occurs with increased frequency in cirrhosis. In this study, we attempted to establish a relation between the magnitude of serum IgG antibody to H pylori and the endoscopic diagnoses in H pylori-infected cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

All cirrhotic patients who had undergone esophagogastroduodenoscopy with a positive H pylori IgG serology and who did not receive anti-H pylori treatment or take medications noxious to the gastroduodenal mucosa were included in the study. H pylori IgG serology was determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with values of greater than 50 units/mL being seropositive. The functional reserve of cirrhosis was classified by modified Pugh-Child criteria.

RESULTS

One hundred four seropositive cirrhotic patients were recruited. The serum IgG titers ranged from 51 to 1200 units/mL with a peak frequency at 50 to 99 units/mL (35. 6%). Statistical analysis did not reveal any relation between the quantitative H pylori IgG values and the endoscopic diagnoses, which included gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, gastroduodenal erosions, and normal findings.

CONCLUSIONS

In cirrhosis, the magnitude of H pylori IgG serology cannot be used to predict the presence or absence of peptic ulcer disease.

Predictive factors of oxygen desaturation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in nonsedated patients

BACKGROUND

Hypoxemia can occur during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with or without pharmacologic sedation. We investigated possible predictive factors of severe oxygen desaturation (SaO2 < 90%) in nonsedated patients undergoing endoscopy.

METHODS

A total of 481 patients who underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy without sedation were monitored with continuous pulse oximetry. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors related to the patient, the examination, and the monitoring data that would predict severe desaturation.

RESULTS

Mild desaturation (SaO2 between 90% and 94%) was found in 23.7% of the patients, and severe desaturation (SaO2 < 90%) was found in 6.4%. The variables found to predict severe desaturation were basal SaO2 < 95% (odds ratio 67.7), respiratory disease (odds ratio 30.5), more than one attempt needed for intubation (odds ratio 39.4), emergency procedure (odds ratio 14.9), and American Society of Anesthesiologists score of III or IV (odds ratio 3.9).

CONCLUSIONS

The predictive variables analyzed in this study can be used to identify patients who are at increased risk for desaturation. Such patients require very close monitoring (pulse oximetry at a minimum). Endoscopists and assistants should be especially alert to the possibility of respiratory depression in these patients.

Arterial oxygen desaturation during emergent nonsedated upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in the emergency department

A prospective study was conducted to see whether emergent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) in patients with active upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is associated with more oxygen desaturation than nonemergent EGD. Emergent EGD was performed in the study patients with active upper GI bleeding. Nonemergent EGD was performed in the control patients. Determination of oxygen saturation (Sao2) was measured by pulse oximeter. A decrease in Sao2 of > 4% was more frequent in the study patients (26%, 13 of 50) than in controls (6%, 3 of 50) (P < .01). During EGD, mean oxygen saturation decreased significantly in both groups of patients. After EGD, mean oxygen saturation did not recover toward the pre-endoscopy insertion level in the study group (P < .01). A linear association was found that oxygen desaturation = 5.46 + 0.15 (status) -0.06 (baseline oxygen saturation). Emergent EGD for active upper GI bleeding in the emergency department tends to be associated with more frequent significant oxygen desaturation than nonemergent EGD. Continuous oxygen supplementation and oxygen saturation monitoring may be used during emergent nonsedated EGD in the emergency department.

Hypoxemia during diagnostic laparoscopy: a prospective study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic liver biopsy can be safely performed using local anesthesia and intravenous sedation, but the frequency of hypoxemia is unknown.

METHODS

We prospectively studied 68 patients undergoing diagnostic laparoscopy and liver biopsy managed by a standard protocol.

RESULTS

The mean duration of laparoscopy was 27 +/- 5.53 minutes; the mean dose of diamorphine administered was 6.9 +/- 2.7 mg; diazepam, 7.05 +/- 3.52 mg. The baseline arterial oxygen saturation was 95.6% +/- 2.5% and trough was 85% +/- 5.1%. A fall of greater than 4% saturation from the baseline occurred in 64 out of 68 patients (94%). The mean decrease in saturation was 10.1% +/- 5.4%. An arterial oxygen saturation of less than 85% was seen in 32 patients (47%). There was no correlation between the fall in oxygen saturation and the dose of diamorphine or diazepam, the duration of procedure, body mass index, hemoglobin, or volume of pneumoperitoneum induced. One-way analysis of the variance failed to show a significant relationship between the degree of oxygen saturation and Child's class, etiology of liver disease, or smoking habit.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we demonstrated that significant desaturation is common in diagnostic laparoscopy with liver biopsy and is likely due to a combination of different pharmacologic and physiologic effects. We recommend continuous monitoring of both arterial oxygen saturation and supplemental oxygen for all patients throughout laparoscopy.

Patient-controlled premedication by i.v. midazolam for ambulatory surgery

Applying the principle and equipment of patient-controlled analgesia, this double-blind randomised study was designed to determine the premedication dose of midazolam and to provide information about the need for preoperative anxiety control. The effects of patient-controlled premedication by i.v. midazolam were compared to those of a 1-hour i.v. infusion of a fixed dose of 4 mg. Two groups of 25 patients were studied prior to ambulatory surgery. Using a visual analogue scale graded from 0 (no anxiety) to 100, anxiety and short-term memory as well as vital signs, vigilance, cognition and orientation were assessed before premedication and then every 20 min until admission to the operating room. In both groups, 40% of the patients were free of anxiety before premedication. Sixty-four percent of patients in the self-pre-medicated group never used the pump. The dose of midazolam was only 0.7 0.2 mg (mean SD) in this group taken as a whole, 0.7, 1.1 mg (mean SD) in the 8 patients who had an anxiety score at least equal to 50 before premedication, and 1.7 0.3 mg (mean SD) in the 9 patients who chose to push the button of the patient-controlled device. Anxiety and short-term memory scores decreased significantly and similarly in the self-premedicated group and in the fixed-dose group. For similar intraoperative anaesthetic requirements, time from the end of anaesthesia for determining whether a patient was ready for admission to the postrecovery lounge was shorter in the self-premedicated group (26 +/- 8 min vs 32 +/- 8 min; mean +/- SD. Reduced doses of midazolam self-administered via a patient-controlled device can result in a relaxed preoperative period and amnesia in ambulatory surgery patients. However, the level of anxiety before premedication was low, which calls into question the legitimacy of the patient-controlled premedication in this kind of population. The expense of the pump was not justified by the small number of patients using it, probably because they were worried by the technical nature and the invasiveness of this technique.