National surveys have been used to obtain information on sedation and monitoring practices in endoscopy in several countries. To provide data from Portugal and query the Portuguese endoscopists on nonanesthesiologist administration of propofol.

A 31-item web survey was sent to all 490 members of the Portuguese Society of Gastroenterology.

A total of 127 members (26%) responded the questionnaire; 20% were residents. 52% worked in both public and private practice. Most endoscopists performed esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) without propofol in the public sector (68%), compared to 37% in the private sector, a trend also observed for colonoscopy without propofol (62% vs. 30%, respectively). Propofol provided the best satisfaction against midazolam +/-opioid, both in EGD and Colonoscopies (mean 9.5 and 9.7/10 vs 4.9 and 5.4/10 respectively). Nonanesthesiologist administration of propofol was performed only by seven respondents; however, 52% reported that they would consider its use, given adequate training. Pulse oximetry is monitored routinely (99%); oxygen supplementation is administered by 87% with propofol and 51% with traditional sedation. 75% would consider useful the existence of certified courses in Sedation Training in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy in the Gastroenterology Residency curriculum.

Propofol is the preferred sedation agent among Portuguese endoscopists, with a possible interest in expanding its use through targeted training.