An overview of anaesthesia techniques used in medical procedures, including the goals of anaesthesia, types of anaesthesia, and the role of anaesthetists.
Introduction to Anaesthesia Techniques
Designed as a quick‑reference guide for students and healthcare professionals.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | A reversible, controlled loss of sensation (pain, temperature, pressure) and, in many cases, consciousness. |
| Goals | • Provide analgesia and amnesia • Ensure patient immobility • Preserve vital physiologic functions (airway, breathing, circulation) |
| Types of Effects | • Analgesia – pain relief • Amnesia – loss of memory for the procedure • Muscle relaxation – facilitates surgical exposure • Unconsciousness – when required |
| Category | Typical Indications | Key Features | Common Agents |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Anaesthesia (GA) | Major abdominal, thoracic, neurosurgery; procedures requiring complete immobility | • Loss of consciousness • Controlled ventilation (often needed) • Requires airway protection |
Inhalational: Sevoflurane, Desflurane, Isoflurane IV: Propofol, Etomidate, Ketamine |
| Regional Anaesthesia | Orthopedic limb surgery, lower‑body cesarean, vascular procedures | • Numbs a specific region • Patient may stay awake • Often combined with sedation |
• Spinal (bupivacaine, levobupivacaine) • Epidural (ropivacaine, lidocaine) • Peripheral nerve blocks (ultrasound‑guided) |
| Monitored Anaesthesia Care (MAC) / Conscious Sedation | Minor surgeries, endoscopy, dental procedures | • Patient maintains airway and spontaneous breathing • Light to moderate sedation with analgesia |
Midazolam, Fentanyl, Dexmedetomidine, Propofol (titrated) |
| Local Anaesthesia | Small skin procedures, biopsy, minor repairs | • Direct infiltration at the surgical site • No loss of consciousness |
Lidocaine, Prilocaine, Mepivacaine (often with epinephrine) |
Pre‑operative Assessment
Induction
Airway Management
Maintenance
Monitoring (minimum standards)
Emergence & Recovery