Arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2 ) and heart rate (HR) were measured by a pulse oximeter (Nellcor Symphony N-3000, Nellcor Puritan Bennet Inc., Pleasanton, CA) twice with an interval of one minute before the procedure; twice during the procedure (one and three minutes after intubation) and finally one and two minutes after extubation. The minimum SpO2 and maximum HR were noted as was the duration of the procedure. Biopsies were taken when indicated, and the qualities of the biopsies were assessed. Adverse effects during the endoscopies were noted; e.g. epistaxis.