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Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

This information is only a guide and should not replace information supplied by your anaesthetist. If you have any questions about your anaesthesia, please speak with your treating specialist.

Different kinds of anaesthesia

What are the different kinds of anaesthesia?

Duration of anaesthesia

Risks and complications

Awareness

I am frightened that I may be aware during an operation. Is that possible?

Regurgitation and aspiration

What is regurgitation and aspiration?

Fasting

Do I need to fast prior to surgery?

Taking medications

What medicines should I stop or take prior to having surgery?

Smoking and anaesthesia

Does smoking have an impact on patients having anaesthesia?

Herbal and dietary supplements

Can I take herbal and dietary supplements?

Blood transfusions

What are the risks of a blood transfusion?

Anaesthesia and the elderly

Are there special considerations regarding the elderly having an anaesthetic?

Obesity

What effect does obesity have on anaesthesia?

Epidurals and childbirth

How common is it for women to have an epidural in labour?

Caesarian section

If I had an epidural put in for labour pain, and I require a caesarean section, what happens to the epidural?

How will the anaesthetist make sure that I won’t feel pain during the caesarean section?

Spinal and epidural block

What is the difference between spinal and epidural block?

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