(Anesthesia, General)
Definition
Definition
General anesthesia puts the entire body to sleep by giving medication. It is often used during emergency surgery. It is also commonly used if a procedure would make you uncomfortable if you were awake.
Doctors trained in anesthesia (anesthesiologists) carefully balance the amount of anesthesia medications given by closely monitoring the body’s functions. Medications are used to:
- Prevent pain
- Relax the muscles
- Regulate body functions
Reasons for Procedure
Reasons for Procedure
This is used so that surgery can be done without you:
- Being aware of it
- Feeling any pain
Possible Complications
Possible Complications
Every precaution is used to prevent complications. Often, medications are given in advance to prevent certain problems, such as nausea and vomiting. Even so, complications may occur and include:
- Allergic reaction to anesthetic used
- Nerve damage or skin breakdown from positioning on the operating table
- Sore throat or damage to throat, teeth, or vocal cords
-
Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
- Lung infections
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Anesthesia awareness—a rare complication where the patient becomes aware during the surgery
Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to manage factors that may increase your risk of complications such as:
What to Expect
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
Unless you are having emergency surgery, you will meet with an anesthesiologist before surgery and will be asked about:
- Your health history and your family’s health history—Tell your doctor if you have had anesthesia before and your reaction to it. Tell your doctor about your family’s history with anesthesia.
- Medications that you take, including herbs and supplements—These can have an effect on how the anesthesia works.
Before the procedure:
- Your height and weight will be taken.
- You will need to fast the night before surgery.
- You may need to take certain medications in the morning before surgery.
Description of the Procedure
General anesthesia is broken down into 3 phases:
- Induction phase—Medications will be given that result in the loss of consciousness. These will be given through an IV or through gas into the lungs. A breathing tube will be placed down your windpipe. This will be attached to a machine that helps you continue to breathe normally.
- Middle or maintenance phase—Medications will be given based on your responses. These may keep you asleep or regulate your body functions.
- Recovery or emergence phase—This will slowly reverse the anesthesia. The medications given will allow you to wake up. When you are starting to awaken and are breathing on your own, the breathing tube will be removed.
Endotracheal IntubationCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
|
Immediately After Procedure
As you wake up, you will be closely monitored. Any pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.
How Long Will It Take?
This procedure takes as long as needed, depending on the surgery.
How Much Will It Hurt?
General anesthesia numbs all pain. Since you are asleep, your brain will not sense any pain signals.
Average Hospital Stay
How long you spend in the hospital depends on:
- Type of surgery
- Your reaction to the surgery and anesthesia
Post-procedure Care
When you have recovered from anesthesia, you will be sent to a hospital room or home. For the first 24 hours or longer, avoid doing activities that require your attention, such as driving.
Preventing Infection
During your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection, such as:
- Washing their hands
- Wearing gloves or masks
- Keeping your incisions covered
There are also steps you can take to reduce your chance of infection, such as:
- Washing your hands often and reminding your healthcare providers to do the same
- Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks
- Not allowing others to touch your incision
Call Your Doctor
Call Your Doctor
It is important for you to monitor your recovery after you leave the hospital. Alert your doctor to any problems right away. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:
- Signs of infection, including fever and chills
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain
- Lightheadedness or fainting
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
RESOURCES:
American Society of Anesthesiologists http://www.asahq.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
References:
http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/medical_care/anesthesia.html
Updated April 2012. Accessed September 29, 2014.
General anesthesia. American Pregnancy Association website. Available at:
http://americanpregnancy.org/labor-and-birth/general-anesthesia
Updated January 2014. Accessed September 29, 2014.
Pollard R, Coyle J, Gilbert R, Beck J. Intraoperative awareness in a regional medical system: A review of 3 years’ data. Anesthesiology. 2007;106(2)269-274.
Sackel DJ. Anesthesia awareness: an analysis of its incidence, the risk factors involved, and prevention. J Clin Anesth. 2006;18(7):483-485.
Last Updated: 9/29/2014