Anesthesiology at BMCHRC

The main types of Anesthesia include General Anesthesia, Regional Anesthesia, and Local Anesthesia. General Anesthesia induces a state of unconsciousness and total loss of sensation, while regional anesthesia blocks pain sensation in a specific region of the body, such as an arm or leg. Local Anesthesia numbs a small area of the body, typically used for minor procedures or surgeries.

Yes, modern Anesthesia techniques are generally safe when administered by qualified Anesthesia providers in appropriate settings. Anesthesiologists undergo extensive training and certification to ensure the safe delivery of anesthesia care, and advanced monitoring technology helps mitigate risks during surgery and Anesthesia administration. However, like any medical intervention, anesthesia carries some risks, which are carefully managed by the anesthesia team.

Before undergoing Anesthesia, your healthcare provider will conduct a pre-operative assessment to evaluate your medical history, current health status, and anesthesia needs. It's essential to follow any pre-operative instructions provided by your healthcare team, including fasting guidelines, medication instructions, and restrictions on eating and drinking before surgery.

While Anesthesia is generally safe, it can cause side effects and complications, including Nausea and Vomiting, Sore Throat, confusion, Muscle Aches, and allergic reactions. Serious complications, such as anesthesia awareness (consciousness during surgery) or adverse reactions to anesthesia medications, are rare but possible. Your anesthesia provider will discuss potential risks and complications with you before surgery and take steps to minimize them.

The level of consciousness during surgery depends on the type of anesthesia used and the specific procedure being performed. Under general anesthesia, you will be unconscious and unaware of the surgery taking place. With regional or local anesthesia, you may remain awake but will not feel pain in the affected area. Your anesthesia provider will discuss the anesthesia plan with you before surgery and address any concerns or preferences you may have regarding consciousness during the procedure.

The duration of anesthesia effects varies depending on factors such as the type and dose of anesthesia medications, your individual response to anesthesia, and the duration of the surgical procedure. After surgery, the effects of anesthesia typically wear off gradually as the medications are metabolized and eliminated from your body.

After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area where you will be closely monitored as the effects of anesthesia wear off. You may experience some grogginess, dizziness, or nausea during this time, but these effects should resolve as you fully wake up. Your healthcare team will provide pain relief medications and support as needed to ensure a smooth recovery process.

After anesthesia, it's essential to follow your healthcare provider's post-operative instructions carefully to promote a safe and speedy recovery. This may include restrictions on eating and drinking, limitations on physical activity, and guidelines for taking pain medications or other prescribed medications. It's also important to have a responsible adult accompany you home after surgery and to avoid driving or operating machinery until cleared by your healthcare provider.

Before surgery, you will have an opportunity to meet with your anesthesia provider to discuss your medical history, anesthesia plan, and any questions or concerns you may have. This pre-operative consultation is an opportunity to address any specific preferences, allergies, or previous experiences with anesthesia and to ensure that you feel comfortable and informed about the anesthesia process.