For the first time four crucial aspects of gastrointestinalendoscopy are combined in a single text. Drugs for sedationand monitoring of the patient are addressed with particularreference to safety issues and comfort and acceptability forthe patient. Resource management and health economictechniques are applied to endoscopy to determine quality andoutcome. Problems of negligence and informed consent formthe basis of a medico-legal examination of endoscopicpractices.