WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
The dictionary definition of anesthesia is "a state
characterized by loss of sensation." In everyday medical
practice, that means the deadening of pain during an operation
or procedure. Among the most common types of anesthesia
are:
-
Local Anesthesia: This approach limits pain-killers
to the site of the operation, leaving you awake during the
operation. The drugs are usually administered as a pattern
of shots that numb nerves throughout the area, although a
pain-killing ointment or spray is sometimes sufficient. If
you've ever had a reaction to Novocain, lidocaine, or
similar numbing drugs, local anesthesia may not be the best
choice for you. Be sure to tell your doctor about any such
allergies before you're given the shots.
-
Intravenous Regional Anesthesia: This approach can
be used for operations on an arm or leg. A pressure cuff is
first put on the limb, then painkillers are given through
an IV. The cuff keeps the medication in the affected limb.
As with local anesthesia, you'll stay awake during the
operation.
-
Spinal Anesthesia: This type of anesthesia requires
an injection in the spine. You will be awake during
surgery, but will be numb below the waist and will be
unable to move your legs. Feeling and movement return
gradually as the medicine wears off, typically in 1 to 2
hours.
-
Epidural Anesthesia: For this type, a tiny tube is
positioned near the spine, allowing administration of
additional medication during the operation. Initial
placement of the tube is accomplished with a needle in your
back. You'll be awake during the operation and may be able
to move your legs, but you should not feel any pain.
Feeling will return to your legs when the anesthesia wears
off.
-
Saddle or Caudal (KAW-dull) Block: This type of
anesthesia is used to numb the area of the buttocks. To
receive the anesthetic, you'll need to position yourself on
your stomach, or lie on your back with your legs up in
stirrups. Pain-killing medication is then injected in the
lowest part of your spine. You'll remain awake throughout
the operation.
-
General Anesthesia: This alternative puts you
completely to sleep throughout the operation. The
anesthetic is given either as a liquid in your IV or as a
gas through a face mask or endotracheal (END-o-TRA-kee-ull)
tube placed in your mouth and throat. This tube protects
your windpipe during surgery and makes it easier to inhale
oxygen or gas, although it may leave you with a sore throat
after it's removed.
In addition to an anesthetic, you may also be given drugs
to make you sleepy and relaxed. If you are awake during the
procedure, you may still feel pressure and pushing, but should
feel no pain. If the anesthetic isn't working, don't hesitate
to tell the doctor. He or she will give you another
dose.
Risks
The drugs used for anesthesia leave many people sick to
their stomach after the procedure. Spinal and epidural
anesthesia can take a while to wear off. With all forms of
anesthesia, there's even a remote chance of a seizure or heart
attack. Nevertheless, the alternative to anesthesia is severe
pain. For certain operations, there is no alternative; they
cannot be performed at all unless you're completely
anesthetized.
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