Pre-anaesthesia evaluation is performed before surgery or procedures requiring anaesthesia. It involves reviewing the patient's medical history, existing illnesses, previous anaesthetic experiences, allergies and medications. Relevant investigations may be assessed to identify risks and guide the selection of an appropriate anaesthesia plan.
General anaesthesia produces a controlled state of unconsciousness for selected surgical procedures. Anaesthesia professionals monitor breathing, blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels throughout the operation. The technique and medicines are selected according to the procedure, patient health and potential risks.
Regional anaesthesia blocks sensation in a specific area of the body. It may be used for selected operations involving the limbs, abdomen or pelvis. Techniques include spinal, epidural and peripheral nerve blocks. Patient suitability depends on medical history, medications and surgical requirements.
Spinal anaesthesia involves administering local anaesthetic medication into the fluid surrounding the spinal nerves. It is commonly used for selected lower abdominal, pelvic and lower-limb operations. The anaesthesia team evaluates possible contraindications and monitors the patient throughout the procedure.
Epidural anaesthesia involves delivering medication into the epidural space near the spinal nerves. It may be used for selected surgical procedures and pain management situations. The decision depends on the patient's clinical condition, procedure and potential benefits and risks.
Peripheral nerve blocks temporarily reduce sensation in a selected region by administering local anaesthetic near a nerve or group of nerves. They may be used as part of surgical anaesthesia or postoperative pain management. The choice of block depends on the procedure and patient suitability.
Local anaesthesia numbs a limited area of tissue for selected minor procedures. It may allow treatment without general anaesthesia. The medicine, dosage and technique depend on the procedure, medical history and potential adverse reactions.
Monitored anaesthesia care involves professional assessment and monitoring during selected procedures, with sedation or other anaesthetic support provided when appropriate. Monitoring may include heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and breathing. The level of support depends on the patient's condition and procedural requirements.
Procedural sedation uses medication to improve patient comfort during selected diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Sedation can range from minimal to deep, and the patient requires appropriate monitoring. Safety planning includes assessment of airway risks and recovery requirements.
Airway management helps maintain breathing and oxygen delivery during anaesthesia. Depending on the clinical situation, it may involve airway positioning, supraglottic airway devices or endotracheal intubation. The technique is selected according to patient anatomy, the operation and anticipated airway risks.
Endotracheal intubation involves placing a breathing tube into the trachea when clinically required. It may be used during general anaesthesia or in other situations requiring airway protection and assisted ventilation. The procedure requires appropriate training, equipment and monitoring.
Intraoperative monitoring helps assess the patient's condition throughout surgery. Common measurements include blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation and ventilation. Additional monitoring may be required for complex procedures or patients with significant medical conditions.
Postoperative recovery monitoring takes place after anaesthesia and surgery. Clinical staff assess breathing, circulation, consciousness, pain and other possible complications. Patients remain under observation until appropriate recovery criteria are met.
Postoperative pain management aims to improve comfort and support recovery after surgery. Treatment may involve oral or intravenous medicines, regional techniques and non-pharmacological measures. The plan depends on the operation, patient condition and potential medication-related risks.
Multimodal analgesia combines different pain management approaches to improve pain control while reducing reliance on any single medication. Techniques may include non-opioid medicines, regional blocks and other suitable treatments. The combination is selected according to the patient and procedure.
Laparoscopic surgery often requires anaesthesia planning that accounts for patient positioning and the effects of gas insufflation within the abdomen. The anaesthesia team monitors ventilation and circulation and adjusts care according to the surgical procedure and patient condition.
Urological procedures may require general, spinal or other anaesthesia techniques depending on the operation. Preoperative assessment considers kidney function, existing illnesses and medications. The choice of technique is made by the treating anaesthesia and surgical teams.
Patients with significant heart, lung, kidney or metabolic conditions may require additional anaesthesia assessment and monitoring. The care plan may involve coordination with other medical specialists, optimisation of existing conditions and appropriate postoperative observation.
Nausea and vomiting may occur after anaesthesia or surgery. Prevention and treatment depend on patient risk factors, the operation and medications used. Management may include antiemetic medicines, hydration assessment and adjustments to the anaesthesia plan.
Perioperative consultation helps patients understand the anaesthesia process, fasting instructions, medication considerations and recovery expectations. Clear communication about allergies, previous anaesthesia problems and current medical conditions supports safe surgical planning.