Principles of Sedation and Analgesia

Abstract

The interventional radiology (IR) suite has created an increasing demand for anesthesia services. Also, technological advancements and a movement toward minimally invasive surgery have moved procedures once performed in the operating room (OR) to IR suites, often in remote locations. Historically, patient sedation in the IR suite has been administered under the supervision of the interventional radiologist, utilizing conscious sedation. The updated Joint Commission regulations have fostered a closer relationship between anesthesia services and IR programs. Despite the apparent simplicity of this relationship, providing anesthesia services in remote locations can be challenging. This relationship requires that the specialties become familiar with each other. The increased need for anesthesia has also created a demand for expertise in non-OR anesthesia (NORA). This chapter discusses the principles of sedation and analgesia, as well as the role and challenges that the anesthesia team faces while providing service in the IR suite.