Joan Rivers -- Death Caused by Lack of Oxygen to Brain ... While Under Propofol

Joan Rivers died because she went into hypoxic arrest during her throat procedure ... cutting off oxygen to her brain -- but the medical examiner is calling it a "predictable complication."

The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner released its findings today, revealing that Joan was sedated with Propofol during the procedure.

The investigation also revealed Joan had the procedure to evaluate changes in her voice and to deal with acid reflux.

Joan suffered brain damage due to lack of oxygen.

As for the "predictable complication" ... it appears the Examiner is saying her cause of death is simply a risk associated with either anesthesia, the procedure, or both.