Preoperative Anesthesia Consultation:
When a surgical procedure is scheduled, my secretary will assist you in scheduling an appointment with the anesthesiologist on a date that suits you.
The anesthesia consultation should take place within the month preceding the surgery and no later than 48 hours before hospitalization (except in cases of emergency). For this consultation, please remember to bring the following:
- A list of your usual medications, including dosage and dosing schedules.
- Your past and recent health assessments (X-rays, ECGs, blood tests, urine tests, dental assessments, cardio-pulmonary assessments, etc.).
You will be able to discuss the type of anesthesia with the anesthesiologist and share your preferences.
THE FOUR MOST COMMON TYPES OF ANESTHESIA:
➜ General anesthesia:
You will be completely asleep, induced by a combination of intravenous drugs and sedative gases. A machine called a ventilator ensures the oxygenation of your lungs through a flexible tube inserted into your airways. You will not feel any pain or hear any sounds, and you will regain consciousness in the recovery room once the surgery is complete.
➜ Regional anesthesia:
A targeted injection of anesthetic around each nerve allows for the anesthesia of the entire region it innervates downstream. This injection is most often performed under ultrasound guidance.
For example: An injection at the shoulder level can numb the arm, forearm, and hand. An injection at the root of the thigh can numb the knee, leg, and foot.
➜ Spinal anesthesia:
A needle inserted in the lower back allows for the injection of a substance to anesthetize the lower half of the body. This method is used for surgeries on the lower limbs. You remain awake during the procedure, but a mild sedation (light sleep) can be administered intravenously if you prefer. The return of sensitivity, leg mobility, and sphincter control usually occurs gradually within 6 hours following spinal anesthesia.
➜ Local anesthesia:
The anesthetic substance is injected directly using a small needle with a diameter of 0.36 or 0.5 mm at the site of the surgery. This method is mainly used for small procedures on the hand, wounds, etc.
These anesthesia methods can be combined for better comfort and improved post-operative pain relief for the patient. You can ask the anesthesiologist questions about post-operative pain management (painkillers).
The anesthesiologist will provide instructions on which medications to continue or discontinue before the surgery (anticoagulants, aspirin, antihypertensives, heart medications, etc.). The anesthesiologist may also request a cardiac, pulmonary, dental, or biological assessment to be performed before hospitalization. Please pay close attention to their instructions, as non-compliance is a common cause of surgery postponement or cancellation.