What is the purpose of using carbon dioxide instead of air for insufflation?

What is the purpose of using carbon dioxide instead of air for insufflation?

• A. It is cheaper
• B. It provides better patient comfort
• C. It can be absorbed more quickly
• D. It improves visibility

Answer: (C)

Using carbon dioxide for insufflation during endoscopy is primarily beneficial because it can be absorbed more quickly by the body compared to air. This rapid absorption helps reduce the risk of post-procedural complications, such as pain and distension, as carbon dioxide is a naturally occurring gas in the body and is easily eliminated through respiration. In contrast, air can remain in the bowel for a longer period, leading to discomfort for the patient after the procedure. This difference in absorption rates is a crucial factor in enhancing patient safety and comfort during and after the endoscopic procedure. While other options touch on aspects of cost, comfort, and visibility, they do not address the essential physiological advantage that carbon dioxide offers in terms of rapid absorption, making it the preferred choice for insufflation in flexible endoscopy.

Using carbon dioxide for insufflation during endoscopy is primarily beneficial because it can be absorbed more quickly by the body compared to air. This rapid absorption helps reduce the risk of post-procedural complications, such as pain and distension, as carbon dioxide is a naturally occurring gas in the body and is easily eliminated through respiration.

In contrast, air can remain in the bowel for a longer period, leading to discomfort for the patient after the procedure. This difference in absorption rates is a crucial factor in enhancing patient safety and comfort during and after the endoscopic procedure.

While other options touch on aspects of cost, comfort, and visibility, they do not address the essential physiological advantage that carbon dioxide offers in terms of rapid absorption, making it the preferred choice for insufflation in flexible endoscopy.