Propofol-based Sedation versus Conventional Anesthesia in Endoscopic Interventions

Background: Gastrointestinal endoscopy is essential for diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal conditions.Procedural efficiency, patient safety, and satisfaction all depend on the choice of sedation. Although propofol-based sedation has been popular due to its rapid onset and fast recovery, this study compares the safetyand efficacy of propofol-based sedation versus conventional anesthesia during gastrointestinal endoscopeprocedures. Methods: This retrospective observational study occurred in the Department of Anesthesia-Analgesia & Intensive Care Unit, Holy Family Red Crescent Medical College Hospital, from August 2022 to July2024. A total of 120 patients were equally divided into two groups based on sedation type. Data on proceduralparameters, recovery time, hemodynamic stability, patient satisfaction, and adverse events were analyzed.Results: Sedation with propofol significantly reduced procedure duration (38.5±10.2 vs. 43.6±11.5 minutes;p=0.01) and recovery time (15.5±5.4 vs. 35±15.5 minutes; p<0.001). Supplemental oxygen requirementswere significantly lower (11.7% vs. 28.3%; p=0.02), along with higher patient satisfaction scores (4.6±0.5 vs.4.2±0.6; p<0.001) for patients receiving propofol. In addition to fewer adverse events, the propofol group hadfewer prolonged recovery times (0% vs. 10%; p=0.01). Conclusion: Gastrointestinal endoscopic procedureswere well suited for propofol-based sedation, as propofol performed better on all measures associated withefficiency, patient recovery, patient satisfaction, and adverse events. Continuous monitoring is required tomitigate respiratory risks.