Though colonoscopy is often performed with anesthesia, a recent study published in the journal Gastroenterology has found sedation increases risk of complications.
Here are five insights into the study.
1. The study authors identified 3.17 million colonoscopies performed on men and women ages 40 to 64 years old through Truven Health MarketScan Research Databases.
2. The researchers looked for complications occurring within 30 days of colonoscopy. Complications included colonic, anesthesia-related and cardiopulmonary outcomes.
3. Of the colonoscopies included in the study, 34.4 percent were performed with anesthesia services.
4. Anesthesia use was associated with a 13 percent increase in risk of any complications.
5. The study authors concluded the widespread use of anesthesia for colonoscopy should be considered in the context of overall risk.