Is gastroscopy and colonoscopy performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia?

Whether gastroscopy and colonoscopy are performed under general or local anesthesia depends on the patient’s preference. These procedures typically include conventional (standard) gastroscopy and painless (sedated) gastroscopy.

Gastroscopy and colonoscopy can be used to detect pathological changes in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, and also allow for biopsy sampling. Two main approaches are available: conventional gastroscopy and painless gastroscopy. In conventional gastroscopy, patients are given a topical local anesthetic (usually as an oral spray or gargle) prior to the procedure to numb the pharynx, thereby minimizing throat irritation during endoscope passage. However, individual tolerance varies; some patients may still experience discomfort such as nausea or vomiting during the examination.

Painless gastroscopy generally requires general anesthesia—most commonly intravenous anesthesia without endotracheal intubation. This enables patients to rapidly enter a state of sedation and unconsciousness, allowing the procedure to be completed comfortably and painlessly. Patients typically awaken quickly after the examination. This approach helps prevent involuntary movement or agitation due to discomfort, thereby reducing the risk of mechanical injury. It is particularly suitable for patients who are anxious, fearful, or highly stressed about the procedure.