Some problems during esophagogastroduonenoscopy for elderly patients
Yamaguchi, Y.; Takahashi, S.'i.
Nihon Rinsho. Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine 60(8): 1533-1536
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 0047-1852 PMID: 12187747 Document Number: 545945
Esophagogastroduonenoscopy(EGD) is a useful tool not only for diagnostic examination but also for less invasive treatment. However, it is the well-known fact that complications occur during EGD, particularly in elderly patients. We reviewed EGD performed for elderly patients. Arrhythmia, elevated blood pressure over 50 mmHg, increased the pulse rates and decreased of oxygen saturation during EGD were more common in elderly patients. Changes in these parameters occurred more frequently when EGD passed through the pharynx at the time of insertion. In conclusion, EGD for elderly patients should be performed more gently and carefully, particularly at the time of insertion.