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Anaesthesia is a medical treatment that induces a temporary loss of sensation or consciousness, allowing patients to undergo surgery or other medical procedures without feeling pain.
There are three main types of anaesthesia: general anaesthesia, regional anaesthesia, and local anaesthesia. General anaesthesia results in loss of consciousness, while regional anaesthesia blocks sensation in a specific region of the body, and local anaesthesia numbs a small area for minor procedures.
The type of anaesthesia used depends on various factors, including the type of surgery or procedure, the patient's medical history, and the preferences of the patient and the anaesthesia team. The options will be discussed with you before your procedure.
For the vast majority of people, the risks from anaesthesia are very low. However, like all medical interventions, there are some risks like allergic reactions, breathing difficulties and accidental awareness. During your procedure though we will be by your side the entire time to ensure that you stay safe, asleep and pain free.
Whether you are awake or asleep during surgery depends on the type of anaesthesia used. With general anaesthesia, you will be unconscious and unaware of the procedure. With regional or local anaesthesia, you may be awake but will not feel pain in the area being operated on.
The duration of anaesthesia varies depending on the type of anaesthesia used, the length of the procedure, and individual factors. However generally these drugs will stay in your system for up to 24 hours.
Preparation before anaesthesia may vary between anaesthesiologists, however we advise that you don't eat 6 hours before taking the anaesthesia. Drinking water before hand is fine, and often you can even drink whilst in hospital until the procedure.
Some patients may experience side effects after anaesthesia, such as nausea, sore throat, confusion, or grogginess. These effects are usually temporary and resolve quickly. We will provide you with appropriate post-operative care to help manage any discomfort.
If you want to find out more about the potential risks from anaesthesia, or just a more detailed overview of what to expect, the Royal College of Anaesthetists website may be useful.
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