Anaesthesia Types and Risks

Anaesthesia Overview

• Anaesthesia is used to reduce pain and discomfort during medical procedures
• There are two main types: local and general anaesthesia

Local Anaesthesia

• Numbs a specific area of the body, allowing the patient to remain awake and alert
• Typically used for minor procedures, such as stitches or biopsies
• Examples of local anaesthetics include lidocaine and novocaine

General Anaesthesia

• Affects the entire body, causing the patient to become unconscious and unaware
• Used for more complex and lengthy procedures, such as surgeries
• Can be inhaled (e.g., sevoflurane) or administered through an IV (e.g., propofol)

Risks of General Anaesthesia

• Respiratory problems, such as respiratory depression or bronchospasm
• Cardiovascular issues, including hypotension or arrhythmias
• Allergic reactions or anaphylaxis
• Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV)
• Increased risk of infections and nerve damage
• Rarely, awareness during anaesthesia or long-term cognitive impairment

Reducing Risks of General Anaesthesia

• Pre-operative evaluation and optimization of patients' health
• Monitoring of vital signs and oxygen saturation during anaesthesia
• Use of anaesthesia protocols and checklists
• Training and experience of anaesthetists
• Post-operative care and monitoring

Complementary Drug Treatments

• Benzodiazepines (e.g., midazolam) to reduce anxiety and sedation
• Opioids (e.g., fentanyl) for pain management
• Anti-nausea medications (e.g., ondansetron) to reduce PONV
• Beta-blockers (e.g., esmolol) to control heart rate and blood pressure
• Neuromuscular blockers (e.g., rocuronium) to facilitate intubation and ventilation