Anesthesia is used to prevent pain and discomfort during medical procedures by blocking sensations in the body. It works by either numbing a specific area (local anesthesia), making a person drowsy and relaxed (sedation), or causing complete unconsciousness (general anesthesia).
Anesthesia is carefully managed by specialized professionals (anesthesiologists) to ensure safety and comfort throughout a procedure. Saint Anthony anesthesiologists provide coverage 24/7 for surgical and obstetric patients.
Before your surgical procedure, you will meet with your anesthesia provider. They will ask you some questions about any previous anesthesia experiences, explain the type of anesthesia you will be receiving, discuss pain management options and make some final safety checks.
Types of Anesthesia
General Anesthesia
A drug-induced state of sleep, intended to block awareness and pain. It is done by use of a gas, given through a breathing tube, or drugs through an IV. The anesthesia team will carefully monitor and ensure your safety and comfort during the procedure.
Local Anesthesia
Involves the use of drugs to block pain in a certain area of your body. A sedative is also given to help relax you for the procedure. It can be given in a few different ways:
- Spinal - Given through a needle to the spine to numb the stomach and lower body. It is very safe and fairly easy to administer. This anesthesia/pain relief can last up to a few hours. Due to the location at the spine, there is almost no chance of any paralysis.
- Nerve Blocks - Used to numb arms and legs. Given through a needle directly to the area needed. They may also be used to provide pain relief post surgery. They will allow for fewer pain medications to be needed during and after surgery.
- Epidural - A sedative injected into to the spine area in your back. This requires an epidural catheter (a small plastic tube) to be placed for up to three days, and it is monitored constantly to ensure pain relief.
Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC)
A drug-induced sedation given through an IV, sometimes leading to sleep, and intended to block pain. It is commonly used for minor surgeries and diagnostic procedures.