Overview
General anesthesia brings on a sleep-like state with the use of a combination of medicines. The medicines, known as anesthetics, are given before and during surgery or other medical procedures. General anesthesia usually uses a combination of intravenous medicines and inhaled gasses.
You’ll feel as though you’re asleep. But general anesthesia does more than put you to sleep. You don’t feel pain when you’re under general anesthesia. This is because your brain doesn’t respond to pain signals or reflexes.
An anesthesiologist is a doctor who specializes in anesthesia. In many hospitals, an anesthesiologist and a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) work together as a team during your procedure. While you’re under anesthesia, the anesthesia team monitors you, watches your body’s vital functions, manages your breathing and treats pain related to the procedure.
Why it’s done
Your anesthesiologist, together with your surgeon or another specialist, will recommend the best anesthesia option for you. The form of anesthesia is chosen based on the type of surgery you’re having, your overall health and your preferences.
Your team may recommend general anesthesia for certain procedures. These include procedures that may:
- Take a long time.
- Require the use of muscle relaxants.
- Result in significant bleeding.
- Significantly change your breathing, blood pressure or heart rate.
Other forms of anesthesia may be recommended depending on your procedure. Spinal anesthesia may be recommended for surgery below your waist such as a cesarean section or hip replacement. Regional anesthesia may be recommended for surgery on a specific part of the body such as a hand or foot. Local anesthesia may be appropriate for minor procedures that involve a small area such as a biopsy. While these forms of anesthesia are commonly combined with sedation during the procedure, they may not be appropriate for more-involved procedures.
