Sedation for Colonoscopy in Children

Abstract

Colonoscopy has become an essential modality for evaluation and treatment of lower gastrointestinal tract. This endoscopic procedure is complex and may be unsafe if special concerns are not considered. It is well accepted that children undergoing colonoscopy should receive sedation for the procedure. Nevertheless, considerable practice variation prevails. The goal of procedural sedation is the safe and effective control of pain, anxiety and motion as well as to provide an appropriate degree of memory loss or decreased awareness. Regardless of regimen used, the safe administration of sedation to children requires an awareness of the particular needs of this population. Although colonoscopy is considered safe, the procedure has a potential for complications. Procedure and sedationrelated complications can more easily occur in pediatric patients. Increased awareness of the complications associated with sedation during colonoscopy in children and involving the anesthesiologists in caring for these children may be optimal for safety. Proper patient preparation, endoscopic personnel and endoscopic unit are imperative to successful sedation and procedure. Additionally, postprocedural monitoring is important to insure that children have fully recovered from sedation.