General Anesthesia

From Start To Finish,

We Support You

Our team is prepared to help you through whatever surgery or procedure you need to undergo. We are here for you. Your assigned anesthesiologist will provide one-on-one care, ensuring that you receive the best possible outcome from your upcoming procedure.

Pre-Surgery

There are specific guidelines you need to follow unless your surgeon instructs you otherwise.

12 hours before: eat a small, light meal (toast, cereal, fruit, & clear liquids). Do not eat after midnight if your surgeon has placed you on a clear liquid diet, or if your procedure involves your stomach or bowels.
8 hours before: only drink clear liquids (water, juice, tea). You may drink up to 2 glasses
4 hours before: do not eat or drink anything other than small sips of water to swallow medicines

What if I Smoke?

In-Depth Anesthesia Care Plan

During The Procedure

Your anesthesiologist consistently ensures your comfort and safety. They will manage any pre-existing conditions along with any unexpected problems during the surgery. Your blood pressure will be constantly monitored, as well as your heart rate, breathing & oxygen levels.

Ensures comfort
Dedicated to your safety
Manages pre-existing conditions
Monitors physical functions

Ready For Any Situation

Possible Side Effects

Anesthesia is a very safe and effective pain management service and serious complications are rare. Complications and side effects may include:

Nausea and vomiting - your doctor may prescribe medications that can reduce the incidence of nausea and vomiting
Dental injury - teeth, caps, or bridges may become chipped or loosened while your breathing is being managed
Sore throat - your throat may feel slightly burned along with some tongue or lip swelling
Nerve injury - rarely, anesthesia can cause permanent loss of sensation in part of the body
Back injury - rarely, epidurals or spinals may cause back pain
Heart or lung complications - if you have a pre-existing health condition such as heart & lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, or severe obesity it could increase your risk for these complications

Always At Your Side

Anesthesia

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the types of anesthesia?

General - similar to a deep sleep
Spinal/Epidural - produces numbness below a certain level using medicine injected through the back
Regional - puts a portion of your body to sleep by using an appropriate location to produce numbness
Sedation - provides relaxation and pain control

Which type of anesthesia will I receive?

Your anesthesiologist will consult with you and your surgeon to make the appropriate recommendation. This will be based on what is needed for your surgery, your medical history, and your wishes.

Will I be awake?

At times, certain procedures require intended awareness. Your anesthesiologist will make sure you know what to expect. Patients can also have some awareness upon entering the operating room and when waking up after the procedure. It is rare that a patient will experience unintended awareness, and your anesthesiologist will take precautions to prevent this.

Your anesthesiologist looks forward to

meeting & taking care of you

Before your procedure date, you may be asked or may request to make an appointment to meet with a member of our department. We may also require additional testing or evaluations in order to be able to provide the safest anesthesia care.

Immediately before your procedure, you will meet your anesthesiologist to discuss and finalize the best anesthetic plan for you. Your health, safety, and comfort are our priorities. As physicians, we are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of medical care.

Our Communities

Where we Serve

HCAA currently serves our community by providing Anesthesia services throughout Maryland.

Rockville Surgical Suites

240-623-0033

3200 Tower Oaks Boulevard, Suite 100
Rockville, MD 20852