Propofol sedation in gastrointestinal endoscopy: a gastroenterologist's perspective.

The present article describes the recommendations regarding the use of propofol by non-anesthesiologists from published guidelines. Furthermore, safety and efficacy data regarding the use of propofol in the hands of gastroenterologists are also reviewed. Although there are no studies comparing the safety and efficacy of propofol administration by anesthesiologists versus non-anesthesiologists for sedation during endoscopy, there is strong evidence that propofol administration by non-anesthesiologists is safe and efficacious for the majority of patients undergoing routine endoscopic procedures.