Why preparation matters
Before surgery under general anaesthesia, the patient undergoes an examination: blood tests, an ECG, a consultation with a general physician and, if needed, other specialists. This lets the anaesthesiologist assess overall health and choose a safe type and depth of anaesthesia for that particular patient.
The doctor asks about chronic conditions, allergies, current medication and any previous experience with anaesthesia. On the day of surgery it's important to follow the instructions on the last meal and drink beforehand, as this reduces risks during the procedure.
The anaesthesiologist's role
The anaesthesiologist is a separate doctor responsible solely for the patient's safety and comfort during surgery. They do not operate, but stay close throughout, monitoring breathing, blood pressure, pulse and depth of sleep for the entire procedure.
Before surgery, the anaesthesiologist discusses the anaesthesia plan with the patient, answers questions and helps ease anxiety - many patients fear the anaesthesia itself more than the operation.
What happens during surgery
Once anaesthesia takes effect, the patient feels no pain and is unaware of what is happening. Throughout this time the anaesthesiologist watches the patient's vital signs on monitors and adjusts the anaesthesia as the operation proceeds. The surgeon and anaesthesiologist stay in constant contact with each other.
Waking up and the recovery room
After surgery the patient is moved to a recovery room, where staff observe their condition until the effects of the anaesthesia have fully worn off. Drowsiness, mild nausea or chills are a normal reaction in the first hours and pass under medical observation.
Once the patient's condition is stable, they are moved to a ward or discharged home, depending on the extent of the surgery and the doctor's recommendations.
When to contact the doctor
After discharge, contact the clinic promptly if severe pain does not respond to prescribed medication, a high temperature develops, breathing feels unusually laboured, or any other warning sign the doctor mentioned appears. In most cases recovery from anaesthesia is calm and free of complications.