Description
Intravenous sedation using a benzodiazepine has many of the advantages of general anaesthesia but less of the disadvantages. Complications can include respiratory depression, vasovagal syncope, venous complications, paradoxical reactions (especially in the young), allergies, drug interactions, cardiovascular complications and loss of consciousness. Careful monitoring and training can reduce morbidity. The use of sedation is now increasing, with the complete banning of outpatient general anaesthesia where there are no coronary care facilities from December 31st 2001.
