Can you have Endoscopy completely pain free? Yes you can. It is called TIVA, which is short for Total IntraVenous Anesthesia (TIVA).
HOW CAN I HAVE GASTROSCOPY (OGDS) OR COLONOSCOPY COMPLETELY WITHOUT PAIN?
Most endoscopy is performed under Conscious Sedation, where the Endoscopist or his assistant administers painkillers (such as Pethidine or Fentanyl) and Sedatives (such as Midazolam). While in theory you are supposed to feel minimal to no discomfort, in reality most patients tend to wake up during procedure or have traumatic experience with great discomfort or pain.
What is TIVA (Total IntraVenous Anesthesia)?
You can now choose to have Endoscopy under TIVA where the anesthetist administers Deep Sedation using sedatives (such as Propofol) and painkillers (such as Fentanyl) while under continuous monitoring. Most patients almost never experience any pain or discomfort as you are deeply sedated. By the time you wake up, you will be in the recovery area having no memory of undergoing the procedure itself. This makes the Gastroscopy (OGDS) and/or Colonoscopy completely Pain Free.
Is TIVA risky?
You are continuously monitored by both the Anesthetist and the Anesthetic Assistant/Nurse, so it is a very safe process as a separate dedicated team would be monitoring your throughout your endoscopy. This allows the Endoscopist to focus on performing the Endoscopy.
Is there any preparation for TIVA?
Patients about to undergo Gastroscopy or Colonoscopy under TIVA do not require any additional preparation. However in the morning of the procedure, they will undergo additional assessment by the Anesthetist. Patients might undergo additional tests such as ECG or Chest X-ray.
Is TIVA covered under my Insurance?
This is subject to application and approval by your respective Insurance companies and Third Party Administrators (TPA).
What are my other options for sedation during Endoscopy?
Click here to read about choices for sedation during endoscopy.
