Anesthesia facts

What type of anesthesia do you use for explant?

Your anesthesiologist will be using general anesthesia for surgeries. During general anesthesia, patients are rendered unconscious through intravenous medicines. You remain under anesthesia until the end of the surgery, so you experience no uncomfortable sensations. During the procedure, the anesthesia provider carefully and continuously monitors your vital signs and anesthesia depth, using sophisticated equipment to track your bodily functions and the level of medications in your bloodstream.

What do I need to avoid before anesthesia?

You may not eat or drink anything eight hours before surgery. If you have food or liquid in your stomach at the time of surgery, it could put you at risk for vomiting and aspirating the content into the lungs, which could be life-threatening. You must also avoid certain medications and supplements. Be sure to let us know everything you are taking and refer to our list of medications to avoid. explantcostarica.com/medications-to-avoid/

Could herbal medicines or supplements affect my anesthesia?

Certain herbal medicines may prolong the effects of different anesthetic medications. Others may increase the risk of bleeding or raise blood pressure. Some effects may be subtle and less critical, but for anesthesiologists, it is better to anticipate a possible reaction than to react to an unexpected situation. It is essential to tell us about everything you usually take before surgery.

How long does it take to come out of anesthesia?

You are usually awake and conscious when you come out of the OR into the PACU (post-anesthetic recovery unit). However, you typically don’t remember that because you are still clearing out anesthesia from your system. You become fully awake about 45-60 minutes after leaving the operating room.

May I speak with the anesthesiologist before my surgery?

Yes, just let the patient coordinator know, and she will set up a phone consult.

Are there risks of anesthesia?

Every surgical procedure and anesthesia involves risks that depend on many factors, including your medical conditions and the type of surgery. We take precautions before your surgery, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), blood clotting times, and other blood work to ensure you aren’t at high risk for complications. Fortunately, significant complications are infrequent, and your anesthesia provider will take precautions to prevent them. Your anesthesiologist will remain in the operating room with you during your surgery, ensuring that everything goes as expected with your procedure. Please remember to read the anesthesia informed consent before your surgery so you can clear out any last-minute questions.