Sedoanalgesia

Sedoanalgesia combines sedation with local anesthesia, usually for surgery, pairing a calming drug with an anesthetic applied to the surgical site so the patient stays conscious but relaxed and free of pain, in contrast to general or regional anesthesia. It is used in endoscopic gastrointestinal procedures, dental procedures and minimally invasive surgery, and is considered beneficial for patients who carry higher risk under traditional anesthesia, including elderly patients with several coexisting health conditions. It has also been found to save cost and time compared with other forms of anesthesia and to need less nursing, anesthetist and equipment support.