Sedierung adipöser Patienten für die Endoskopie

An endoscopic examination must be effective, safe, and as comfortable as possible for the patient. Adequate sedation of the patient during the examination makes a considerable contribution toward achieving this goal. Obese patients are at increased risk during sedation in the presence of concomitant cardiopulmonary diseases. Attention should therefore be given to ensuring adequate monitoring. Particularly with regard to potential difficulties in intubation, another physician experienced in intensive medicine or anesthesiology should be consulted in selected cases. Sedative and opiate doses have to be adjusted accordingly. With respect to its pharmacological properties, propofol exhibits advantages in the sedation of obese patients.