Anesthesiology
Lifespan Physician Group

Types of Anesthesia

At Lifespan Physician Group Anesthesiology, our goal is to provide you with the best possible experience on the day of your surgical procedure. Our team of anesthesiologists is here to answer any questions you may have and make an anesthesia plan that is personalized to your specific needs. There are three major categories of anesthesia.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia uses medications to allow a patient to "go to sleep" and remain unconscious for a medical procedure. This often requires the use of a breathing tube connected to a ventilator to keep you safe during the procedure.

Side effects may include:

  • Nausea or vomiting 
  • Hoarseness 
  • Body aches 
  • Dental injury
  • Sore throat from the breathing tube
  • Sleepiness or drowsiness
  • Allergic reaction to medicines

Monitored Anesthesia Care (Sedation)

There are three levels of sedation:

  • Mild sedation: At this level, you may feel awake and relaxed. You will be able to follow directions.
  • Moderate sedation: At this level, you will be sleepy. You may not remember the procedure.
  • Deep sedation: At this level, you will be asleep. You will not remember the procedure.

Side effects may include:

  • Nausea or vomiting 
  • Allergic reaction to medicines
  • Trouble breathing (this may require general anesthesia)
  • Prolonged sleepiness or drowsiness

Regional Anesthesia

Regional anesthesia uses a type of medication that temporarily blocks feeling in one area of your body. The medication is injected near a nerve or a group of nerves and renders the area numb.

Side effects may include:

  • Pain 
  • Itching 
  • Headache 
  • Nerve damage 
  • Nausea
  • Low blood pressure
  • Allergic reactions to medicine
  • Bleeding around the injection site

To learn more about our services, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page