Recommendation for fluid fasting is two hours prior to anaesthesia, however, less may be acceptable. The current study compares ingestion of 175 ml ice water prior to elective gastroscopy vs. standard fasting on gastric residual volume.

Recommendations regarding fasting requirements prior to general anaesthesia is two hours for fluids. Recent research indicates that reduced fluid fasting time may be acceptable. The current study aimed to compare ingestion of 175 ml ice water 15 minutes prior to procedure compared to standardized fasting regimen on residual gastric volumes in patients receiving elective gastroscopy, as these volumes may have implications for fasting requirements.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Scheduled for elective gastroscopy in a medical outpatient clinic
• American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification system category (ASA score) I or II
• Age 18 years or above

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any increased risk of aspiration, eg. dysphagia, previous aspiration, non-fasting status, or known alcohol abuse
• Suspected delayed gastric emptying, eg. regular opioid use within three days
• Enteral pre-medication required
• Any structural gastric or esophageal diseases