Deciding to have surgery is never easy. You want to be sure that you are making the best decision for your health and wellbeing. One of the most important decisions you will make when preparing for surgery is deciding which type of anesthesia is right for you. There are a few different types of anesthesia, each with its own benefits and risks. Dr Brian Blick, an experienced anesthesiologist, can help you decide which type of anesthesia is right for you.
What Is Anesthesia, And What Are The Different Types?
Anesthesia is a medicine that is used to block pain during surgery. There are different types of anesthesia, each with its own benefits and risks. The type of anesthesia you receive will be based on your type of surgery, your health, and your preferences.
Following are the main types of anesthesia.
- General anesthesia is when you are given medication to make you sleep through the surgery. This type of anesthesia is used for more complex surgeries or longer in duration.
- Regional anesthesia numbs a larger area of your body. This can be done by injecting medication into your spine or numbing the area around the surgery site with a local anesthetic. Regional anesthesia is often used for surgeries on your arms, legs, or feet.
- Local anesthesia numbs a small area of your body. The medication is usually injected directly into the surgical site. Local anesthesia is often used for minor surgeries, such as biopsies or removing skin lesions.
The Benefits Of Each Type Of Anesthesia:
General anesthesia has the benefit of being very effective. You will be unconscious and will not feel any pain during surgery.
- Regional anesthesia has the benefit of numbing a large area of your body, which can make a recovery from surgery easier.
- Local anesthesia has the benefit of numbing a small area of your body, which can make surgery less invasive.
- Each type of anesthesia has its own risks and side effects. Be sure to speak with your doctor or anesthesiologist about which type of anesthesia is right for you.
How To Decide Which Type Of Anesthesia Is Right For You
If you are having surgery, your doctor will help you decide which type of anesthesia is right for you. There are a few things to consider when making this decision.
- Your health is one factor that will be considered. If you have any health problems, your doctor may recommend a specific type of anesthesia.
- The type of surgery you are having is also important. Some surgeries can be done with regional or local anesthesia, while others require general anesthesia.
- Your preferences are also important. Some people prefer to be asleep during surgery, while others would rather not sleep. Talk to your doctor about what type of anesthesia is right for you.
Dr. Brian Blick’s Experience With Anesthesia
Dr. Brian Blick serves as the Chief of Anesthesia at Elk City, OK, Great Plains Regional Medical Center. Also, he founded the Western Oklahoma Pain Specialists LLC.
Bottom Line:
There are several varieties of anesthesia, each with advantages and drawbacks. The type of anesthesia you receive will be determined by your health, the sort of surgery you’re having, and your preferences. Make sure to speak with your doctor or anesthesiologist about which sort of anesthesia is best for you.
