Quality Standards in Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: Can Deep Sedation Influence It?

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> According to the guideline published by ESGE/UEG, a high-quality esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) implies the application of some criteria that enable better healthcare outcomes. Although intra-procedural performance measures are dependent on patient factors, there is no reference to sedation practices in the guideline mentioned above. <b><i>Objective:</i></b> This study aimed to evaluate whether deep sedation influences EGD performance measures established by ESGE/UEG. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> This was a cross-sectional study, with a prospective enrollment, that considered for inclusion consecutive patients referred for EGD. Two questionnaires were used to assess performance measures and patient satisfaction after EGD. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Sedation had a statistically significant impact on most quality indicators, including complete examination (77.2% without sedation vs. 97.8% with sedation), inspection time (6.17 ± 3.45 vs. 8.39 ± 2.67 min), photodocumentation (78% vs. 97.8%), biopsies (39.3% vs. 60.7%), and patient satisfaction (5.42 ± 2.93 vs. 9.1 ± 1.19). The main reason for an incomplete procedure was patient intolerance (82.6%). <b><i>Discussion:</i></b> Deep sedation of patients submitted to EGD proved to be a determinant in the applicability of the ESGE/UEG quality indicators. Patient intolerance was eliminated in the group with sedation, enhancing procedure completeness, adequate pathology identification, management, and consequently, the effectiveness of the exam. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Sedation administration should be considered in patients undergoing EGD since it ensures a high-quality procedure.