Editorial
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World J Gastroenterol. May 14, 2014; 20(18): 5171-5176
Published online May 14, 2014. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i18.5171
Propofol use in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasound
Danny G Cheriyan, Michael F Byrne
Danny G Cheriyan, Michael F Byrne, Department of Gastroenterology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
Author contributions: Cheriyan DG and Byrne MF were both involved with the concept of the paper, along with literature search, writing, and final editing of the manuscript.
Correspondence to: Dr. Danny Cheriyan, Department of Gastroenterology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver General Hospital, 899 W. 12 Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada. dgcheriyan@gmail.com
Telephone: +1-604-8754111
Received: November 29, 2013
Revised: January 12, 2014
Accepted: March 12, 2014
Published online: May 14, 2014
Processing time: 165 Days and 23.3 Hours
Abstract

Compared to standard endoscopy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) are often lengthier and more complex, thus requiring higher doses of sedatives for patient comfort and compliance. The aim of this review is to provide the reader with information regarding the use, safety profile, and merits of propofol for sedation in advanced endoscopic procedures like ERCP and EUS, based on the current literature.

Keywords: Propofol; Endoscopy; Ndoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography; Endoscopic ultrasound; Safety

Core tip: There is a plethora of data to support the safety profile of propofol in general endoscopy, and many studies that support non-anesthesiologist administered propofol. There are also compelling data that support its use in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasound. In the world of advanced therapeutic endoscopy, where patient burden, risk, and cost are high, propofol based sedation delivered by non-anesthetic, but appropriately trained individuals, should become the new standard.