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Always By Your Side

There are several anesthetic techniques available for your surgery. You and your anesthesiologist will discuss and choose the option that best suits your needs.

Regardless of technique, your anesthesiologist will be your side for the entire procedure.

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Types of Anesthesia

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GENERAL ANESTHESIA 

Produces unconsciousness so that you will not feel, see or hear anything during the surgical procedure. A combination of intravenous medications and inhaled gases are administered to induce and maintain anesthesia. This technique will also require the placement of an airway device.

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REGIONAL ANESTHESIA

Produces temporary numbness to the area of your body that requires surgery. This is done by injecting local anesthetic around the corresponding nerves with the aid of ultrasound guidance and/or nerve stimulation. Neuraxial anesthesia is done by injecting local anesthetic into the spinal or epidural space. Regional anesthesia is often accompanied with monitored anesthesia care.

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MONITERED ANESTHESIA CARE

Produces a semi-conscious state often referred to as “twilight”. Intravenous medications are given to reduce anxiety, pain and consciousness. Medications are titrated to provide light, moderate and deep levels of sedation.

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What to Expect

What are risks of anesthesia?
Surgery and anesthesia are safer today than ever before, thanks to continuing advances in science. Inherently, surgery and anesthesia carry risks, and they are dependent upon your medical condition and the procedure being performed. More common risks include nausea, vomiting and sore throat. Fortunately, serious adverse events are very rare. Rest assured that your anesthesiologist will take all precautions to minimize risks.
Before Your Surgery
Patients often have questions about eating, drinking and taking medicine prior to surgery. In general, we advise patients to avoid eating or drinking 8 hours prior to surgery. Unless otherwise instructed by your surgeon, please adhere to this general rule as keeping an empty stomach minimizes the risk of aspiration. There are some medications that should be taken and others you should not. Your surgeon or anesthesiologist will review your medications and advise which medications should be continued and discontinued.
Day of Surgery
Your anesthesiologist will review your medical history, physical condition, laboratory results and any other special studies. It is important to inform your anesthesiologist of all medical problems, allergies, medications (including vitamins and herbal supplements) and previous problems with anesthesia. Based on all of this information, your anesthesiologist will discuss the anesthetic options and their risks and benefits with you. Together, an anesthetic technique will be chosen that is best suited for you.
After Your Surgery
After surgery, you will be taken to the post-anesthesia care unit which is often referred to as the “recovery room”. You will be monitored by nurses as the effects of anesthesia wear off. Medications will also be available as needed for pain and nausea. Your anesthesiologist will determine when you are stable enough to be discharged.
Do you have questions about billing?
Please contact Krizan Ventura at KVentura@pacmedservices.com for any further questions on billing. You can also reach her by phone at (310)-792-3914, EXT 364 or fax at (855)-898-4049

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