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Habush Habush & Rottier - Waukesha Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Misuse of Anesthesia

Anesthesia is a phrase that has been in use for many centuries to describe the blocking of sensation (most commonly pain). This term describes various forms of general anesthesia, including forms that we may not normally think of as anesthesia, such as hypnosis, relaxation, obtundation, and analgesia. Anesthesia, which is commonly used for patients undergoing surgery, allows medical professionals to complete otherwise painful procedures without causing the patient much pain.

Patients who require surgery have to undergo an evaluation to determine whether or not the use of anesthesia is a safe option. In some cases, patients are unable to be “put under” due to other medical health concerns. This anesthesia evaluation considers your medical history, physical examination, blood work, and consultations with your physician.

There are several levels of anesthesia that can be used to block the pain of surgery. These include:

• General anesthesia
• Sedation
• Moderate Sedation
• Minimal Sedation

Anesthesia can be used in various areas of the body. Regional anesthesia causes the loss of pain sensation in a certain larger regions of the body. Spinal and Epidural anesthesia work in a very specific and precise location in the body. Local anesthesia is similar to regional, but affects a smaller portion of the body.

It is important for patients in a drug-induced state of anesthesia to be monitored carefully. With some types of anesthesia the patient is unable to breath on their own, requiring the assistance of a breathing machine. Your doctor is required to monitor your health as you remain under anesthesia. If your doctor failed to monitor you or a loved one during anesthesia, contact the Waukesha Medical Malpractice Lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C. today by calling 1-800-559-5599.