Anaesthesia

Types of anaesthesia

As well as local and general anaesthetic, there are a number of other types of anaesthesia.

Unlike general anaesthetic, these don't make you unconscious; they stop you feeling pain in a particular area of your body.

The different types of anaesthetic are described below.

regional anaesthetic this is a local anaesthetic given to a specific region of your body, giving numbness or pain relief for deeper operations where more extensive numbness is needed
epidural anaesthesia a type of regional anaesthetic usually used to numb the lower half ofthe body; for example, as pain relief during labour and childbirth
spinal anaesthetic a type of regional anaesthetic used to give total numbness lasting aboutthree hours to the lower parts of the body so surgery can be safely carried out in this area
sedation medication that makes you feel sleepy and relaxes you both physically and mentally; it's sometimes used to keep you calm during minor, painful or unpleasant procedures

Different types of anaesthesia can be used in combination. For example, a regional anaestheticcan be used with a general anaesthetic to relieve pain after an operation.

A sedative isalso sometimes used with a regional anaesthetic to help you feel relaxed and calm during an operation, as well as pain-free.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for anaesthesia

Introduction

Find out about different types of anaesthetics, how they work, and the potential side effects. Also, read about the role of the anaesthetist.

How anaesthetics work

Anaesthetics work by stopping the nerve signals that keep you awake and aware from reaching your brain. During this state of induced sleep, procedures can be carried out without you feeling anything.

Types of anaesthesia

As well as local and general anaesthetic, there are a number of other types of anaesthesia. Unlike general anaesthetic, these don't make you unconscious; they stop you feeling pain in a particular ar

How anaesthetics are given

An anaestheticcan be given in a number of ways: as an ointment, spray or drops as an injection into a vein as a gas you breathe in

Anaesthetists

Anaesthetists are doctors who have received specialist training in anaesthesia. They'llgive youyour anaesthetic and be responsible for your safety and wellbeing during your procedure. Before the proc

Anaesthetics consist of a number of medications that can cause side effects in some people. Your anaesthetist will tell you about any side effects you may experience after having a specific type of an

Risks and complications

In recent years, having anaesthesia has become very safe. Advances in equipment, medication and training mean serious problems are rare. However, as with any type of surgery or medical procedure, the

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