These day-procedures are commonly performed under procedural sedation. In gastroscopy, a flexible scope is passed through the mouth into the oesophagus, stomach and small bowel. A mouth guard will be placed between the teeth during gastroscopy to protect both the teeth and scope from damage. For colonoscopy, the scope is passed into the back passage to visualise the large bowel.

Most sedated patients will not remember the entire endoscopy procedure. However, during procedural sedation, some patients may recall fragments of the process. It is important to alert the anaesthetist if one is uncomfortable during the procedure. Usually paracetamol is sufficient for any discomfort afterwards.

The Australia and New Zealand College of Anaesthetist (ANZCA) produced an information handout “Anaesthesia for endoscopy" is downloadable here.

Please see risks or anaesthesia for more information here.