Patient-controlled sedation with nitrous oxide for colonoscopy. First experiences

Background: Intravenous sedation for colonoscopy is associated with cardiorespiratory complications and delayed recovery. In this pilot survey the authors sought to determine whether patient-controlled sedation (PCS) using nitrous oxide (Livopan: 50% nitrous oxide, 50% oxigen) provides adequate analgesia for colonoscopy and the impact of this agent on recovery. Patients and Methods: 79 ASA I-II patients (man: woman = 40: 39, mean age: 62.3 years) undergoing elective colonoscopy received nitrous oxide with PCS method. The patients completed 4-point satisfection scale. The side effects, the success rate of colonoscopy and the recovery time were recorded. Results: 77 (97.4%) patients undervent complete colonoscopy without any complications. 72 (91.1%) patients were satisfied (41 completely, 20 moderately, 11 mildly) with PCS. Recovery was fast (median 30 minutes). Only 7 patients would not choose PCS method in case of repeated colonoscopy. The authors experienced no side effects of nitrous oxide. Conclusions: Patient controled sedation with nitrous oxide is effective and safe method for colonoscopy, but further trials are necessary.