Most anaesthetists in Australia are highly trained specialists, having spent at least 5 years undergoing training in anaesthesia, pain control, resuscitation and the management of medical emergencies.
People often think of anaesthesia as being ‘put to sleep’. However, this is not strictly true. Usually the anaesthetist puts you into a state of carefully controlled unconsciousness. This is done so that you will be unaware, and not feel pain. No chance is taken during this period. Your major bodily functions are carefully and constantly monitored by your anaesthetist. This level of unconsciousness is called a ‘General Anaesthetic.”
All surgery performed by MIGYNAE in hospital are under General Anaesthetic. This is a state of unconsciousness for the duration of the operation. This is achieved by injecting drugs through a cannula placed in a vein and then maintained with intravenous drugs or a mixture of gases which you will breathe. While you remain unaware of what is happening around you, the anaesthetist monitors your condition closely and constantly adjusts the level of anaesthesia. You will often be asked to breathe oxygen through a mask just before your anaesthesia starts.
You will usually see your anaesthetist before your operation. This may not be possible for emergency cases, day cases and late arrivals. In those circumstances the ‘pre-operative consultation’ will take place in the anaesthetic room or the theatre. The Anaesthetist will want to know about:
An anaesthetist wants to have the best possible picture of you and your present conditions so that the most suitable anaesthetic can be planned. Answer all questions honestly – it is really all about minimising risk to you.
We know being hungry can be uncomfortable, but no food or drink before the operation is a must. Food or fluid in the stomach may be vomited and enter your lungs while you are unconscious. If you do not follow this rule of fasting, the operation may be postponed in the interests of your safety. MIGYNAE will advise you how long to fast and when you can have your last sip of water – water/clear fluids are generally allowed until 2 hours before your estimated surgical time.
Your anaesthetist, with recovery room staff, will continue to monitor your condition carefully, well after surgery is finished, to ensure your recovery is as smooth and trouble-free as possible.
You will feel drowsy for a little while after you wake up from the anaesthetic. You may have a sore throat, feel sick or have a headache. These symptoms are temporary and usually soon pass.
To help the recovery process, you will be given oxygen to breathe, usually by a clear plastic facemask, and encouraged to take deep breaths and to cough. Only when you are fully awake and comfortable will you be transferred either back to your room, ward, or a waiting area before returning home.
Do not worry if there is some dizziness, blurred vision or short term memory loss. It usually passes quickly. If you experience any worrying after-effects; you should contact your anaesthetist.
It is likely that you will be asked to come into hospital only a few hours before your operation.
Hospitals are very busy places and current practice means that you may only see your anaesthetist just before your anaesthetic. Please feel free to contact your anaesthetist prior to coming into the hospital if you have particular concerns or questions. Any important, relevant medical history will be relayed to your anaesthetist from the office of MIGYNAE.
The best part is that most people now go home on the day of surgery. If you are having ‘Day Surgery” make sure there is someone to accompany you home.
For at least 24 hours do not
We urge you to ask questions. Your anaesthetist will be happy to answer them and discuss the best way to work with you for the best possible outcome.
Our practice will be closed for the holiday season from 25th December 2024 and reopen on Tuesday 7th January 2025 @ 9.00am.
During this period, emails and incoming referrals will not be answered or monitored. All correspondence will be processed upon our return on 7th January 2025.
In case of an emergency, please visit your nearest Emergency Department or call 000 for immediate assistance.
If you have had surgery within the last three weeks, and require urgent medical attention over the holiday closure period, please call the paging service on 9387-1000 to contact your surgeon or attend the nearest Emergency Department.
On behalf of the entire team at MIGYNAE, we wish you a happy, safe holiday season and a prosperous NEW YEAR.
We look forward to welcoming you back in 2025!
