Effect of Different Bed Head Angles on Intraoperative Hypoxemia in Patients Undergoing Painless Gastroenteroscopy: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study

Effect of Different Bed Head Angles on Intraoperative Hypoxemia in Patients Undergoing Painless Gastroenteroscopy: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract:

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of different bed angles (0° vs. 15°) on the incidence of intraoperative hypoxemia in patients undergoing gastroscopy and colonoscopy. A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the impact of patient positioning on respiratory safety, providing evidence for individualized anesthesia management.

Background:

With the increasing popularity of painless gastrointestinal endoscopy, hypoxemia has become a major safety concern in anesthesia management, particularly in elderly and obese patients. Studies have shown that the incidence of hypoxemia can exceed 26%, highlighting the importance of optimizing respiratory safety during anesthesia.

Methods:

A total of 400 patients scheduled for painless gastrointestinal endoscopy were recruited and randomly assigned to a control group (0° left lateral position) or an experimental group (15° left lateral position). Baseline data were recorded preoperatively. Intraoperative vital signs were monitored, and the occurrence of hypoxemia and other complications was documented. Data were collected and processed in a blinded manner, followed by statistical analysis using SPSS 26.0.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ≥ 18 years
2. Planned to undergo painless (sedated) gastrointestinal endoscopy
3. Signed informed consent form
4. American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Physical Status classification I to III

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnancy
2. Emergency examination or inadequate bowel preparation
3. Baseline peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO₂) < 95%
4. Patient or family members refuse to participate in the study