Does gastrointestinal endoscopy need general anesthesia?

Generally speaking, gastrointestinal endoscopy does not require general anesthesia. Gastroenteroscopy is a common endoscopic examination method, which is used to check the lesions or diseases of digestive tract.

Gastroenteroscopy is usually performed under local anesthesia or topical anesthesia. Local anesthesia is to reduce discomfort and laryngeal reflex by spraying or injecting local anesthetic drugs, such as laryngeal or oral anesthesia. In some cases, oral sedatives can also be used to relax patients.

However, under special circumstances, such as the patient's physical condition is not suitable for local anesthesia or complicated surgical treatment, general anesthesia can be chosen. General anesthesia requires the anesthesiologist to evaluate and decide according to the specific situation of the patient.

Therefore, under normal circumstances, gastrointestinal endoscopy does not need general anesthesia, and whether it needs general anesthesia or local anesthesia depends on the patient's health and doctor's advice. If gastrointestinal endoscopy is needed, please consult a professional doctor for accurate advice.