When sedated or under anesthesia, your body’s normal protective airway reflexes, such as coughing, that prevent the aspiration of any regurgitated stomach contents is impaired. The aspiration of acidic or solid gastric contents can cause serious and even life threatening lung inflammation and infection. If your stomach is full, the chances of regurgitating are greater which increases the likelihood of aspiration.
It is extremely important to comply with the NPO protocols prior to your medical procedure.