The kind of anesthesia commonly used for colonoscopy varies based on the sedation level chosen, but the most frequent is deep sedation using the drug Propofol. Propofol is a short-acting anesthetic that induces unconsciousness quickly and wears off rapidly, allowing most patients to sleep through the procedure with no memory of it. It is administered by an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist. Other anesthesia options include moderate or conscious sedation, typically administered by the doctor performing the colonoscopy, using drugs like midazolam and fentanyl to relax the patient without full unconsciousness. General anesthesia is rarely used except in specific cases where patient safety requires it. In summary:
- Most patients (about 95%) receive deep sedation with Propofol.
- Moderate sedation (conscious sedation) is also common, using benzodiazepines and opioids.
- General anesthesia is seldom used and reserved for special cases involving airway or lung issues.
Propofol's advantages are its fast action and quick recovery time, but it can lower blood pressure and slow breathing, so it's not suitable for everyone.