General Anaesthetic

A general anaesthetic means being put completely to sleep for a procedure.

This can vary depending on the procedure and the anaesthetist, but generally requires three types of medication - one to put you to sleep (propofol), one to relax the muscles, and a strong painkiller. The exact medications used is chosen by the anaesthetist, and can be different for each procedure and each patient. If you have questions around the medications please ask your anaesthetist.

For a general anaesthetic you will need a breathing tube placed. There are different types of tubes, but any long procedures require an endotracheal tube - which goes into your windpipe (trachea). This is put in after you are alseep and taken out before you wake up, but can leave you with a scratchy feeling in your throat for a few days after the surgery.