Anesthesia and Surgery

An important part of your surgery is the treatment of anesthetics. An anesthetic is a substance that produces a local or general loss of sensation, including pain. An anesthesiologist and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) will be your advocate throughout your surgery. During your surgery, you will be monitored for comfort and safety.

The Anesthesia care team will:

  • Assess your medical history
  • Review previous anesthesia experiences and explain exactly what is going to happen
  • Monitor your breathing, blood pressure, blood flow, and heart functions
  • Remain with you throughout the entire surgery

Preparing for Anesthesia:

  • Quit smoking (ask your healthcare provider for assistance)
  • Take medications as directed by your preadmission nurse
  • Try to stay calm

Type of Anesthesia: 

  • General: 
    • Affects your entire body You are unconscious
    • Breathing is controlled with an endotracheal tube inserted into the windpipe
    • Will remain asleep and wake at the end of the surgery
  • IV Sedation:
    • Given through an intravenous (IV) placed in a vein
    • Patients may be able to talk, depending on the level of anesthesia used, or instead be in a deep sleep.
    • Patients are able to breathe on their own without intubation
  • Local:
    • Numbs a small area of the body for minor procedures
    • Blocks pain
    • You may remain awake