General anesthesia

General anesthesia is a treatment that puts you into a deep sleep so you do not feel pain during surgery. When you receive these medications, you will not be aware of what is happening around you.

Description of Procedure

You will receive general anesthesia in a hospital or outpatient office. Most times, a doctor called an anesthesiologist will put you to sleep. Sometimes, a certified registered nurse anesthetist will take care of you.

The doctor will give you medication into your vein. You may be asked to breathe in (inhale) a special gas through a mask. Once you are asleep, the doctor may insert a tube into your windpipe (trachea) to help you breathe and protect your lungs.

You will be watched very closely while you are asleep. Your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing will be monitored. The doctor or nurse taking care of you can change how deeply asleep you are during the surgery.

You will not move, feel any pain, or have any memories of the procedure because of this medicine.

Risks of General anesthesia

General anesthesia is usually safe for healthy people. The following people may have a higher risk of problems with general anesthesia:

• People who abuse alcohol or medications
• People with allergies or a family history of being allergic to medicine
• People with heart, lung, or kidney problems
• Smokers

Ask your doctor about these complications:

• Death (rare)
• Harm to your vocal cords
• Heart attack
• Lung infection
• Mental confusion (temporary)
• Stroke
• Trauma to the teeth or tongue
• Waking during anesthesia (rare)

Review Date: 1/26/2011
Reviewed By: Shabir Bhimji, MD, PhD, Specializing in General Surgery, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Midland, TX. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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