Risks and complications | Anaesthesia within the scope of a gastroscopy

Risks and complications

In general as well as in gastroscopy in particular, anaesthesia is a very safe procedure nowadays and hardly dangerous. The most frequent complications occur as a result of the administration of narcotics and painkillers in the form of cardiovascular problems. However, the anaesthetist can counteract these problems very well by administering medication.Furthermore, the sedation may cause slowed breathing or even respiratory arrest.

However, this is not uncommon and can be easily compensated by the administration of oxygen or short-term ventilation. Very rarely, allergic reactions to medication also occur. This manifests itself in many different ways.

On the one hand, it can lead to harmless skin redness and rashes, but also to dangerous anaphylactic shock. Overall, however, complications during anaesthesia can be almost completely avoided with the help of constant monitoring by the anaesthetist. The most common side effect of anesthesia is the occurrence of nausea after gastroscopy, which is referred to as PONV (postoperative nausea and vomiting).

This side effect, although harmless, is very unpleasant and is mainly caused by anaesthetic gases and is particularly common in women and non-smokers. However, it can be well counteracted by the administration of nausea-reducing medication (antiemetics) during or after the examination. Another side effect is postoperative delirium, which affects older people in particular.

This is a disturbance of consciousness and orientation immediately after awakening from anesthesia. Furthermore, it can lead to memory and concentration disorders lasting for several days or weeks. Overall, however, side effects due to the anaesthesia are very rare in gastroscopy, as the duration of the anaesthesia is very short and therefore only a small drug dose is required.

In general, an unpleasant, numb feeling in the throat area is often reported after a gastroscopy. Sometimes a temporary hoarseness occurs. However, these symptoms are usually short-lived and permanent damage is extremely rare.

After a gastroscopy it is recommended not to consume any food or drink until the symptoms have subsided, otherwise there is a risk of choking or “inhaling” (aspirating) food. During the examination, air is introduced into the stomach area through the gastroscope, which may lead to a temporary feeling of pressure or increased belching. If the gastroscopy has been performed with the aid of anesthetics or narcotics, driving a vehicle until the next morning is not appropriate.

In addition, after anesthesia, no machines should be operated, dangerous activities should be performed or important decisions should be made. If symptoms such as severe pain, vomiting blood, dizziness or similar occur after a gastroscopy, a doctor should be consulted immediately.