| Theme |
Patient Management During Endoscopic Examination and Treatment |
| Title |
Premedication for Screening Colonoscopy |
| Author |
Joichiro Horii |
Division of Research and Development for Minimally Invasive Treatment, Cancer Center, Keio University School of Medicine |
| Author |
Toshio Uraoka |
Division of Research and Development for Minimally Invasive Treatment, Cancer Center, Keio University School of Medicine |
| Author |
Hiroyuki Ishii |
Division of Research and Development for Minimally Invasive Treatment, Cancer Center, Keio University School of Medicine |
| Author |
Osamu Goto |
Division of Research and Development for Minimally Invasive Treatment, Cancer Center, Keio University School of Medicine |
| Author |
Naohisa Yahagi |
Division of Research and Development for Minimally Invasive Treatment, Cancer Center, Keio University School of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] |
Colonoscopy is recognized as the most preferred technique for diagnosis and surveillance of colorectal diseases such as adenomatous polyps or cancer. The role of colonoscopy has increased in recent years in accordance with the increased incidence of colorectal lesions. However, patients occasionally experience pain and discomfort during the procedure. The aim of premedication, including sedation and antispasmodic agents, during colonoscopy is to decrease the patientʼs complaints, and to improve endoscopic performance and safety during colonoscopy. It is important to be aware that complication rates associated with endoscopies increase when premedication, especially sedation, is used. Therefore, thorough risk evaluation before procedures, monitoring and maintenance of intravenous lines during the procedure must be carried out. In addition, properly trained staff members and emergency equipment should be readily available. After the procedure, careful observation of patients in recovery areas is also required. The best approach to premedication in colonoscopies is to choose a premedication regimen considering the individual patient and that it be tailored according to clinical risk assessment and the anxiety level of the individual patient. Furthermore, it is important to adjust the regimen commensurate with the number of attending doctors and the number of trained staff members. Adequate recovery room space and emergency equipment availability are also relevant factors. |