How does the preparation for anesthesia take place?
June 27, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Babette Köhler
Dear Doctor,
My name is Theodor Voigt and I have an upcoming operation in which anesthesia will be necessary. Since I have never been under anesthesia before, I am somewhat worried and unsure about how the preparation for anesthesia works.
Currently, I am in good physical condition and have no health problems that could affect the anesthesia. However, I would like to know more about the steps and measures that are taken before anesthesia to ensure that everything goes smoothly.
I am wondering if I need to stop taking certain medications before the operation, if I should remain fasting beforehand, and how long before the operation I am not allowed to eat or drink. I am also curious if there are any tests that need to be conducted before the anesthesia to rule out any potential risks.
My biggest concern is that something could go wrong during the anesthesia or that I could experience unpleasant side effects or complications. Therefore, it would be very reassuring for me to know exactly what to expect and how to best prepare for the anesthesia.
Could you please explain in detail how the preparation for anesthesia will proceed in my case and what steps I need to take to ensure the best possible outcome of the anesthesia?
Thank you in advance for your help and information.
Sincerely,
Theodor Voigt
Dear Mr. Voigt,
Thank you for your inquiry and your trust in my expertise as an anesthesiologist. It is understandable that you may feel uncertain before your upcoming surgery with anesthesia and would like to learn more about how to prepare for the anesthesia.
First and foremost, it is important to know that the preparation for anesthesia usually involves standardized procedures aimed at ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the anesthesia. It is reassuring to hear that you are in good physical condition and do not have any health problems that could affect the anesthesia.
Regarding medication intake before the surgery, there are some general recommendations. Your treating physician will usually inform you if you need to stop taking certain medications before the surgery. This mainly concerns blood-thinning medications or medications that may affect blood clotting. It is important to follow these instructions closely to avoid any complications during the surgery.
As for dietary intake before the surgery, the usual rule is that you should not eat or drink anything after midnight before the surgery. This is done to minimize the risk of aspiration (ingestion of stomach contents into the lungs) during the anesthesia. Again, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions closely to ensure safety during the anesthesia.
Before the anesthesia, certain examinations are usually carried out to rule out any potential risks. These typically include a medical history (questions about your health history) and a physical examination. Depending on the type of surgery and your health condition, additional tests such as blood tests, EKG, or X-rays may be necessary. These tests are done to detect any potential risks early on and take appropriate measures.
Regarding possible complications or side effects during the anesthesia, it is important to know that anesthesia is very safe nowadays and the risk of serious complications is very low. However, as with any medical procedure, there are certain risks that you should be thoroughly informed about beforehand.
To prepare optimally for the anesthesia, it is important to follow all instructions provided by your treating physician. This includes medication intake, fasting before the surgery, and any other specific instructions that are important for your surgery. Additionally, it is helpful to discuss any questions or concerns with your treating anesthesiologist to alleviate any fears and prepare for the anesthesia as best as possible.
Finally, I want to emphasize that the team around you - consisting of anesthesiologists, surgeons, and nurses - is dedicated to ensuring your safety and well-being during the surgery. Do not hesitate to express any questions or concerns to be best prepared for your anesthesia.
I hope I was able to answer your questions comprehensively and provide you with more clarity and confidence regarding your upcoming anesthesia. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
Best wishes for your surgery and a speedy recovery!
Sincerely,
Babette Köhler, Anesthesiologist
