Sir, I am writing to highlight the benefits of offering inhalation sedation (IHS) to patients, particularly because of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on waiting times for general anaesthetic.

In hospital, we are seeing general anaesthetic (GA) waiting lists getting longer, with many patients suffering repeat bouts of pain and infection, and increased treatment with antibiotics. For those old enough, IV sedation can be offered, but for younger children and patients with poor venous access or medical contraindications, this is not a reasonable option.

Our introduction of IHS has allowed us to make good progress in treating these patients and reducing our GA waiting list. SDCEP recommends IHS as the preferred method of conscious sedation.1It is a safe technique with quick recovery time, and may help acclimatise patients to treatment and reduce anxiety. It also improves our consent process as it can be offered alongside local anaesthetic and GA. We are currently using this technique in both paediatric and adult cases, and have so far received excellent feedback.