DeGraff Memorial Hospital

Anesthesia

Anesthesiologists are physicians responsible for the planning, coordination and administration of anesthesia during surgical procedures. They also are in charge of maintaining patient life support. Anesthesiologists are available at DeGraff 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

About Anesthesia

Anesthesia is a series of medications and procedures which keep patients comfortable during procedures and is administered at DeGraff by highly trained physicians specializing in anesthesiology.

Types of anesthesia include:

General Anesthesia

Patients are totally asleep and unaware of surroundings. It is administered by an intravenous injection through a thin tube in the arm and inhaled gases.

Regional Anesthesia

Regional anesthesia numbs certain areas of the body so that pain is not felt. Additional relaxation medications may also be given.

Monitored Sedation

Monitored sedation keeps patients relaxed and comfortable. Patients remain awake and aware of their surroundings throughout the procedure. Some, however, may be drowsy or in a light sleep.

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia affects only the area involved in the procedure. It may be used in combination with sedation.

Epidural Anesthesia

A type of regional anesthesia primarily used for lower pelvic surgery, epidurals can also be used with a general anesthesia. This service is commonly used for labor and delivery. Occasionally, epidurals are used for post-op and pain management surgery.

Spinal Anesthesia

Similar to epidural anesthesia, this anesthesia is also used for surgery on the lower body beginning with the hip. As an example, spinal anesthesia is frequently used for hip replacement surgery.

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