General anaesthesia
General anaesthesia is commonly required for a wide range of surgical procedures. It induces
a controlled state of unconsciousness, ensuring you feel nothing and have no memory of the
operation.
Anaesthetic drugs are given either through an injection into a vein or by inhaling
anaesthetic gases. These medications prevent the brain from processing sensory signals from
the body.
Throughout the procedure, the anaesthetic team closely monitors your vital signs, and your
anaesthetist remains by your side at all times, ensuring your safety and comfort.
Regional anaesthesia
Regional anaesthesia numbs a specific group of nerves in the area where surgery is being
performed. Common techniques include spinals and epidurals, often used for caesarean
sections, bladder surgery, and hip or knee replacements.
Another form of regional anaesthesia is a nerve block, where an injection is placed near a
nerve or nerve plexus. This can provide excellent pain relief during and after surgery.
Regional anaesthesia can be used on its own, allowing you to remain conscious but pain-free,
or combined with general anaesthesia or sedation to enhance comfort and post-operative pain
control.
Local anaesthesia
Local anaesthesia is used to numb a small, specific area of the body where the procedure is
being performed. It is commonly administered by the surgeon.
It is frequently used for operations on the teeth, skin, eyes and digits. Local anaesthetic
can be applied as drops, sprays, ointments or injections.
In many cases this does not require the presence of an anaesthetist, unless intravenous
sedation is also being given.
Sedation
Sedation involves giving small amounts of anaesthetic drugs to create a ‘sleep-like’ state.
It can make you feel calm, drowsy and less aware of the procedure.
There are different levels of sedation, but typically you may drift in and out of sleep. You
may be able to respond to your clinician when needed, but are unlikely to remember much of
the procedure.
Sedation is often combined with regional or local anaesthesia to improve comfort and reduce
anxiety during certain procedures.
