What risks are associated with general anesthesia?
June 6, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Babette Köhler
Dear Doctor,
My name is Tobias Fischer and I am about to undergo a surgery where general anesthesia will be used. I am concerned about possible risks and have some questions about it.
First of all, I would like to learn more about the general risks of general anesthesia. What complications can occur and how common are they usually? Are there specific risks that occur more frequently in certain patient groups, such as older people or individuals with pre-existing conditions?
I am also interested in how the anesthesia is tailored to me individually. What factors play a role in the dosage of anesthesia drugs and how is my reaction to the general anesthesia monitored to detect possible complications early on?
Additionally, I would like to learn more about the aftereffects of general anesthesia. What possible side effects can occur and how long does it usually take to fully recover?
Lastly, I would like to know what measures I can take myself to minimize the risk of complications during and after the surgery. Are there specific rules of behavior or preparations that I should make to support the safety and success of the procedure?
Thank you in advance for your time and understanding. I look forward to receiving your detailed information and clarifying my concerns regarding general anesthesia.
Sincerely,
Tobias Fischer
Dear Mr. Fischer,
Thank you for your inquiry and trust in my expertise as an anesthesiologist. It is understandable that you are concerned about potential risks associated with general anesthesia. I will answer your questions as comprehensively as possible to provide you with more clarity.
Firstly, regarding the general risks of general anesthesia: Potential complications may include nausea and vomiting, dizziness, headaches, allergic reactions to the medications used, low blood pressure, heart rhythm disturbances, pneumonia, blood clot formation, and wound infections. It is important to emphasize that such complications typically occur rarely, especially when anesthesia is performed by an experienced anesthesiologist.
Certain patient groups, such as elderly individuals or those with pre-existing conditions, may have a slightly higher risk of complications. This is often due to their weakened body and potential for a less optimal response to anesthesia. In such cases, anesthesia is tailored individually to minimize risk and ensure patient safety.
The dosage of anesthetic agents is determined based on various factors such as your age, weight, health status, medication intake, and type of planned procedure. Your response to general anesthesia will be continuously monitored throughout the entire procedure to detect and respond to potential complications early on.
After the operation, various side effects may occur, such as fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or pain. These side effects typically subside within a few hours to days, depending on your individual recovery progress. It is important to take sufficient time for recovery and to communicate any discomfort to your treating physician.
To minimize the risk of complications during and after the operation, you can take certain measures. These include following fasting rules before the procedure, discontinuing certain medications before surgery, informing the medical team about your pre-existing conditions and allergies, and following post-operative care instructions.
I hope I have comprehensively answered your questions and provided you with more confidence regarding general anesthesia. Please do not hesitate to ask further questions if you still have uncertainties. I wish you all the best for your upcoming surgery.
Best regards,
Babette Köhler
