Recovery Hypoxemia After Sedated Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Sedation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy may lead to respiratory events not only during the procedure but also in the early recovery period. Although most hypoxemic episodes are considered transient, their frequency, duration, and clinical consequences during recovery remain insufficiently defined. This prospective observational study aims to evaluate the incidence, duration, and clinical impact of recovery-period hypoxemia following sedated upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Hypoxemia is defined as SpO₂ \<90% lasting ≥10 seconds. Associated respiratory events and potential risk factors will be analyzed without altering routine clinical practice.