| Although propofol appears to be the best medication for endoscopies its utilization presents challenges in community practice. Approximately 20% of endoscopic procedures are performed with propofol in the USA presently. However, it is expensive and anesthesiologists are reluctant to allow gastroenterologists to use it in many institutions. It increases costs significantly to have an anesthesiologist in the endoscopy suite. |
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For those colonoscopists using traditional medications or attempting sedationless colonoscopy, this simple technique of HC may be of use to decrease procedural and postprocedural pain.
HC decreases radial and longitudinal distension of the colon which prevents or decreases bloat discomfort.
HC keeps the colon relatively short and makes cecal intubation easier to achieve. The turns in the sigmoid and the splenic and hepatic flexures are less pronounced in a deflated colon.
HC improves the quality of the preparation.
HC significantly diminishes spasm with lavage at body temperature. There is reduction in the amount of air introduced into the small intestine. There is facilitation of rapid passage through the sigmoid colon.
HC neither hinders the speed nor the accuracy of colonic evaluation.
Females experience more discomfort and require more time for HC.
More polyps are found in males. |
