Patients

Overview

Anesthesia, a cornerstone of modern medicine, ensures comfort and pain-free experiences during medical procedures. From minor interventions to major surgeries, anesthesia allows doctors to perform their work while patients remain at ease. However, understanding its intricacies can help patients approach their procedures with confidence and peace of mind.

Types of Anesthesia

Anesthesia includes general for unconsciousness, regional for larger areas, local for specific spots, and sedation for relaxation.

General Anesthesia

Ensuring that you’re unconscious and free from pain during surgeries, general anesthesia affects the entire body. You’ll be asleep during the procedure and won’t remember anything about it.

Regional Anesthesia

This targets a larger area of your body, like an arm or leg. Often used in surgeries like knee replacements, it numbs the concerned region while you remain conscious.

Local Anesthesia

For minor procedures, local anesthesia numbs a small, specific area. You’ll be awake but won’t feel any pain in the anesthetized zone.

Patient-Centered Approach

VRAA believes in a holistic approach to anesthesia. For us, it’s not just about ensuring pain-free procedures, but also about ensuring that you’re informed, comfortable, and cared for throughout your journey.

Anesthesia Risks

Every surgical procedure and anesthesia administration involve certain risks, influenced by variables such as the surgery type and the patient’s health. Thankfully, unfavorable incidents are exceedingly infrequent, and our anesthesia professionals take precautionary measures to avert any mishaps.

Planning For Your Procedure

Our medical team will inquire about your medical history, including your current medications. It’s crucial to keep your primary physician, and any other specialist you may be under their care, informed about any health changes ahead of time, as certain conditions might necessitate rescheduling the surgery. Lastly, patients should arrange for transportation post-procedure and ensure someone accompanies them for a minimum of 24 hours.

FAQs

How do I prepare for anesthesia?

Preparation often includes fasting for several hours before surgery. Specific instructions will be provided based on the procedure and type of anesthesia. Always follow your anesthesiologist’s advice.

Will I feel any pain during the procedure?

The primary purpose of anesthesia is to prevent pain. Depending on the type you receive, you'll either feel nothing or remain relaxed and comfortable throughout.

Can I eat or drink before anesthesia?

Generally, you're advised to avoid eating or drinking for a specific period before surgery to prevent complications. The exact duration depends on the surgery and the type of anesthesia.

What are the risks of anesthesia?

All medical procedures have some inherent risks, but modern anesthesia is very safe. Your anesthesiologist will discuss potential risks and their prevention before your procedure.

How will I feel after the anesthesia wears off?

Some patients might feel groggy, cold, or nauseous. Most side effects are mild and temporary. Your care team will monitor and support your recovery from anesthesia.

Got a question?

Contact us today to discuss your treatment options.