ANESTHESIA
Dr. M. Balaji M.D., (Anesthesia)
Consultant Anesthetist
Dr. A. Saravanakumar M.B.B.S., D.A (Anesthesia)
Consultant Anesthetist
Our Anesthetist specializes in minimizing the pain and maintaining the stability of the patient during and after surgery.
Anesthesia, also spelled anaesthesia, is a medical practice that involves the administration of medications to induce a reversible loss of sensation or consciousness. The purpose of anesthesia is to allow medical procedures to be performed painlessly and safely. It is typically used during surgeries, dental procedures, and other invasive or uncomfortable medical interventions.
Anesthesia can be administered through various methods, including inhalation, injection, or a combination of both. The type and dosage of anesthesia used depend on several factors, such as the patient's medical condition, the type of procedure being performed, and the preferences of the healthcare team.
There are three main types of anesthesia:
- General anesthesia: This type of anesthesia induces a state of unconsciousness, causing the patient to be completely unaware and without any sensation or memory of the procedure. It is typically used for major surgeries or procedures that require the patient to be completely still.
- Regional anesthesia: Regional anesthesia involves blocking sensation in a specific region of the body, such as an arm, leg, or the lower half of the body. It can be administered as a nerve block, spinal anesthesia, or epidural anesthesia. Unlike general anesthesia, the patient remains conscious, but they are unable to feel pain in the area being operated on.
- Local anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb a small, specific area of the body where the procedure will take place. It is typically administered by injecting an anesthetic medication into the immediate area. The patient remains conscious, and the effects are localized to the site of injection.
During anesthesia, the patient's vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and breathing, are closely monitored by an anesthesiologist or a qualified anesthesia provider. They are responsible for adjusting the anesthesia dosage and managing any complications or side effects that may arise during the procedure.
It's important to note that while anesthesia is generally considered safe, there are some risks and potential side effects associated with its use. These can include allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, changes in blood pressure, nausea and vomiting, and post-operative confusion or cognitive dysfunction. However, the benefits of anesthesia in facilitating necessary medical procedures usually outweigh the risks involved.
It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an anesthesiologist, who can provide specific information and guidance based on your individual circumstances and medical history.