No abstract

Lower endoscopies are feasible procedures to carry out in children, in an ambulatory basis, with intravenous sedation and minimum adverse effects.

Introduction:Upper gastrointestinal studies are routine diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. In pediatrics, however, they are limited by the need for sedation and monitoring. Objectives: To evaluate sedation, indication, and parent perception of these exams. Patients and Methods: A prospective study of 190 pediatric upper gastrointestinal endoscopies was undertaken. Demographic data, as well as information regarding the exam was obtained. Results: Patients' average age was 8.5 ± 4.2, mostly referred by pediatricians (60%) Main reason for referral was recurrent abdominal pain (29.8%). Patients were classified according to ASA criteria (93% ASA I and II). Most patients required two or more medications for optimal sedation, with satisfactory procedure in over 90%. Over 75.5% had complete amnesia, 42.7% presented minor discomfort after the procedure. Findings of these procedures included 61% of normal exams, 13.9% esophagitis. More findings were there result of analyses according to children's weight (over or under 14 kg), age, ASA, reason for referral, nurse's evaluation of sedation. Conclusion: Ambulatory endoscopic procedures can be performed safely in children, with moderate sedation. Requirements are adequate monitoring, and deep knowledge of resuscitation techniques.