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Your AnaestHetic

For many people, the greatest concern when it comes to surgery is anaesthesia. However, gaining a better understanding of anaesthetics can also help alleviate these fears.

There are several types of anaesthesia that are used depending on the type of surgery you are having:

• Local anaesthesia is used to prevent pain in a specific area that requires surgery. The local anaesthetic is injected into the area to be treated. This numbs the area and wears off shortly after the procedure. During local anaesthesia, you are awake and aware of your surroundings. This type of anaesthesia is used during procedures such as minor skin surgery.
  
  
• Intravenous sedation is administered through a vein and may be used with other types of anesthesia, such as local anaesthesia. Sedation includes a combination of medications that help prevent pain and anxiety associated with medical procedures. During sedation, you are awake but sleepy, and you may not recall the procedure being performed.
  
  
• Under General anesthetic you are completely asleep and your breathing is controlled by the anaesthetist. General anesthesia prevents any pain or movement, and you won't remember the procedure afterward.

Complications

Regardless of the type of anaesthesia, equipment may be used during your surgery to monitor your heart rate and other vital signs. The monitoring is designed to reduce the risk of complications.

The most common complication is nausea or vomiting. Medication can be administered to reduce this risk and its important to make your anaesthetist aware of any concerns prior to your surgery. Before any surgery you will be required to complete information about yourself and your medical history.

Depending on your surgery and the type of anaesthetic being used you may be asked to restrict food and drink intake for a specific period before the procedure. In the case of general anaesthesia, this is typically 6 hours.

Recovery

No recovery is required after local anaesthetic. Recovery after sedation or general anaesthetic can take one to six hours. After this period, you will still need to have someone drive you home. It is recommend that you have someone stay with you for at least 24 hours following your surgery.