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Sedation & General Anesthesia Types

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Image of anaesthesia doctor who will inject anesthetics into a woman presurgery

General anaesthesia and sedation are two techniques used in medical procedures to make patients unconscious or relaxed during surgery (Bariatric Surgeries such as Gastric Sleeve for Obesity etc.) or other medical procedures (Dental Procedures or Rhinoplasty etc.).

Anaesthetizing is the use of drugs to cause unconsciousness and loss of sensation, while sedating is the use of drugs to induce relaxation, reduce anxiety, and sometimes sleep.

Both techniques have different purposes and implications, and it is essential to understand the differences between them.

What Are the 3 Types of Anaesthesia?

There are three main types of anaesthesia: 

  • Inhaled 
  • Intravenous
  • Total Intravenous

Inhaled anaesthesia is delivered through a mask or breathing tube and is used for short surgical procedures. It is typically performed using gases such as nitrous oxide and sevoflurane.

Intravenous anaesthesia is delivered through an IV (into a vein) and is used for longer surgical procedures. It is typically performed using drugs such as propofol and etomidate.

Total intravenous anaesthesia is a type of intravenous anaesthesia that uses only intravenous drugs and no inhaled anaesthetic agents. This type of anaesthesia is frequently used in patients who have breathing difficulties, such as those with lung or heart disease.

What Is the Safest Anaesthesia for Surgery?

The safety of putting out a procedure depends on various factors, including the patient’s medical history, the type of procedure, and the skill of the anaesthesia doctor.

Generally, local anaesthesia, where only a specific area of the body is numbed, is considered the safest type of anaesthesia.

However, in some cases, general narcosis may be the safest option, such as in emergency surgeries or procedures that involve significant blood loss.

An anesthetic doctor adjusting the sedation mask during surgery on a patient

What Types of Sedation Are Used for General Anesthesia?

It is used in conjunction with narcotization to enhance patient comfort and reduce anxiety during medical procedures. The type of sedating procedure used varies depending on the patient’s medical history and preferences.

Conscious sedation, also known as anxiolysis, is a type that allows the patient to remain awake but relaxed and calm during the procedure. This method is often used for minor surgical procedures, such as dental treatment or dermatological procedures.

Is Sedation Safer Than General Anaesthesia?

The safety of sedating methods and anaesthesia depends on various factors, including the patient’s medical history, the type of procedure, and the skill of the anaesthesia doctor.

In general, it is considered a safer option than general narcotization, as it involves fewer risks and side effects.

However, in some cases, general anaesthesia may be necessary, such as in emergency surgeries or procedures that involve significant blood loss.

How Long Does It Take to Wake Up From Sedation Anaesthesia?

The length of time it takes to wake up from sedation varies depending on the type of sedation used and the patient’s medical history.

In general, patients who receive conscious sedation may wake up within a few hours after the procedure.

However, patients who receive general narcotization may take several hours or more to fully awaken.

What Should You NOT DO Before Anaesthesia?

Before undergoing anaesthesia, it is essential to follow your anaesthesiologist’s instructions, including avoiding certain medications, foods, and drinks.

Some common things to avoid before anaesthesia include the following:

  • Eating or drinking anything, including water, after midnight before the procedure
  • Taking aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for several days before the procedure
  • Taking blood thinners or other medications without consulting with your anesthesiologist
Image of anaesthesiologist and medical staff are anaesthetizing the patient

What Does an Anaesthesiologist (Anaesthesia Doctor) Check Before Surgery?

Before any surgery, an anaesthesiologist/anaesthesia doctor performs a comprehensive evaluation of the patient to ensure that the patient is suitable for anaesthesia and to determine the best type of anaesthesia for the patient.

During the evaluation, the anaesthesia doctor will consider factors such as the patient’s medical history, current medications, allergies, and other relevant information.

The anesthesiologist will also assess the patient’s vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation, to determine if any pre-existing medical conditions may affect the patient’s response to anaesthesia.

Additionally, the doctor will also check the patient’s airway to determine if any special measures, such as the use of a breathing tube, will be necessary during the procedure.

Exploring Safe and Secure Methods of General Anesthesia and Sedation

In conclusion, understanding general anaesthesia and sedation is essential for patients undergoing medical procedures. 

Additionally, at Cavendish Health in Turkey, all our clients have the benefit of the patient journey of some of Turkey’s highest-rated and most experienced experts in the field.

Anaesthetizing and sedating procedures have different purposes and implications, and it is crucial to understand the differences between them.

Patients should also follow their anaesthesiologist’s instructions and discuss any concerns or questions before the procedure.

Your Cavendish Health-approved anaesthesia doctors will perform a comprehensive evaluation according to quality standards to determine the best type of anaesthesia for the patient and ensure that the patient is suitable for anaesthesia. 

Cavendish Health Turkey provides patient hosting, accommodation, transportation, and air ambulance services to assure high-quality, comfortable, and safe care and follow-up consultations

Cavendish Health serves patients with skilled staff and cutting-edge facilities. Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help you achieve your health goals.

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