A sleep-like state induced usually with IV medication, such as Versed, which is related to the valium family of benzodiazepines. Conscious sedation is used for certain procedures that are uncomfortable to spare the patient the anxiety and pain of the procedure. Having a procedure under conscious sedation, while perhaps more comfortable, does add a little bit to the potential risks and side effects of the procedure (termed the morbidity).  Like all treatments, the risks (which are minimal with conscious sedation) must be weighed against the benefits.