During a general anesthetic, you are completely asleep and cannot be aroused. You need help with vital functions such as breathing which requires an anesthetist to be present.

During I.V. sedation, you are relaxed but not asleep. You will be able to respond to conversation and you do not need medical assistance to maintain adequate breathing and heart function.

I.V. sedation is, therefore, a much safer procedure than a general anesthetic and can be carried out in general practice.