Can I as a patient influence which form of anesthesia is used?
March 13, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Babette Köhler
Dear Doctor,
I am Guido Weinert and I am soon facing a surgery that requires anesthesia. I have some concerns and questions regarding the choice of anesthesia. I wonder if as a patient I can have a say in which form of anesthesia is used.
I have never had a surgery under general anesthesia before and I am therefore somewhat worried about how my body will react to the anesthesia. I have heard that there are different types of anesthesia, such as general anesthesia, regional anesthesia, or sedation. I wonder if it is possible to choose the anesthesia form together with my treating doctor that best suits me and my health condition.
I am concerned about the risks that the different forms of anesthesia could entail and whether there are ways to minimize these risks. I would like to be informed and actively involved in the decision-making process to prepare myself safely and well for the upcoming surgery.
Could you please explain to me if as a patient I can influence the choice of anesthesia form used? What factors play a role in the choice of anesthesia and what options do I have to express my concerns and wishes? I would be very grateful for your support and advice on this matter.
Sincerely,
Guido Weinert
Dear Mr. Weinert,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as an anesthesiologist. It is understandable that you have concerns and questions regarding the choice of anesthesia, especially before your first surgery under general anesthesia. I will try to answer your questions as comprehensively as possible to help you feel safe and well-prepared.
It is important to know that as a patient, you can influence the choice of anesthesia used during your surgery. Your wishes and concerns are usually taken seriously and considered by your treating anesthesiologist. It is important to openly and honestly discuss your medical history, any allergies, medications you are taking, and personal preferences with your doctor so that the appropriate form of anesthesia can be selected together.
Several factors play a role in the choice of anesthesia, such as the type and duration of the planned surgery, your health condition, any pre-existing conditions, allergies, medication intake, and personal preferences. Your anesthesiologist will carefully examine all these aspects and discuss them with you to select the best possible anesthesia for you.
There are different types of anesthesia, including general anesthesia, regional anesthesia, and sedation. Each of these forms of anesthesia has its own risks and benefits that should be discussed with you beforehand. Your anesthesiologist will explain the different options to you and choose the appropriate anesthesia for your surgery together with you.
It is important to openly discuss your concerns and wishes with your doctor. Only then can you actively participate in the decision-making process and feel safe. Your anesthesiologist will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
I hope that this information was helpful to you. If you have any further questions or need advice, I am here to help. I wish you all the best for your upcoming surgery and a speedy recovery.
Sincerely,
Babette Köhler, Specialist in Anesthesiology
