An integral part of many surgical procedures, general anesthesia three core purposes: rendering the patient unconscious, controlling pain throughout the operation, and inducing amnesia for the duration of surgery. However, not all surgeries require general anesthesia. Dr Sonny Rubin will discuss the types of surgeries where general anesthesia is typically used.
Major Abdominal and Chest Surgeries
In surgical operations involving significant incisions and manipulations, such as in major abdominal or chest surgeries, general anesthesia is typically the go-to choice. Examples include surgeries for heart conditions, lung diseases, or extensive gastrointestinal issues. Given the complexity and potentially extended duration of these procedures, ensuring unconsciousness with general anesthesia is critical for both patient comfort and surgical precision.
Neurosurgery
During neurosurgical procedures, like those for treating brain tumors or neurological conditions such as epilepsy, general anesthesia is typically employed. Not only does it allow for a still operative field but also helps manage physiological parameters critical in these surgeries, like blood pressure and brain oxygenation Dr Sonny Rubin.
Orthopedic Surgeries
For major joint replacements (like hip or knee replacements) or complex bone fractures, general anesthesia is often chosen. This approach enables ease of positioning, muscular relaxation and, crucially, delivery of strong analgesia, which these typically painful surgeries require.
Trauma Surgery
In emergency situations, like those involving significant injuries or life-threatening conditions, general anesthesia allows for rapid, controlled management of the situation. Speed and patient stability are critical in these settings, and general anesthesia facilitates both efficiently.
Pediatric Surgery
In pediatric surgeries, general anesthesia is largely preferred. Children can struggle with the fear and anxiety associated with surgery. Therefore, inducing unconsciousness can provide an emotional benefit alongside physiological control during the operation.
Certain Types of Eye Surgeries
And finally, certain complex eye surgeries, such as retinal surgeries, might need general anesthesia due to the required precision and stillness. Although local anesthesia is often preferred in many ocular procedures, specific conditions warrant the use of general anesthesia Dr Sonny Rubin.
