There are 3 levels of anaesthesia available for your treatment to control anxiety, pain and memory of your surgical procedure. These options will be discussed with your surgeon to determine the best option for your treatment.

Local anaesthesia

You will be given dental block injections to numb the procedure site by your surgeon. You will be fully awake for the procedure so you will remember and hear everything throughout your procedure. You should not experience pain, but you will feel pressure during your procedure.
You do not require a carer to bring you to and from the surgery and do not require anyone to stay with you after the procedure. However, if you wish to have someone with you, you are most welcome to do so.
You do not need to fast prior to your procedure, however you should not over indulge.
This level of anaesthetist can be performed in our Goodwood rooms only.

Local anaesthesia with IV sedation

A specialist anaesthetist will be booked in for your procedure and they will give you an injection of sedatives usually via a vein in the arm or back of the hand. This option reduces your memory of the procedure and will put you in a relaxed state so you may not be fully aware of what is happening during the procedure. You will still be given dental block injections to numb the procedure site by your surgeon.
You will require a carer to bring you to and from the surgery and require them to stay with you for 24 hours after the procedure. You are not allowed to drive or operate machinery for 24 hours after the procedure.
You will need to fast prior to your procedure, this means no food or water/liquids 6 hours prior to your procedure. If you are taking any medications it is best to check this with your surgeon and anaesthetist.
This level of anaesthesia can be performed in our Goodwood rooms or in any hospital.

General Anaesthesia

A specialist anaesthetist will be booked in for your procedure and they will give you an injection of sedatives usually via a vein in the arm or back of the hand. This option produces a safe complete loss of consciousness and unawareness of the procedure. You will be monitored by the anaesthetist throughout your procedure to ensure your safety. You will still be given dental block injections to numb the procedure site by your surgeon.
You will require a carer to bring you to and from the surgery and require them to stay with you for 24 hours after the procedure. You are not allowed to drive or operate machinery for 24 hours after the procedure.
You will need to fast prior to your procedure, this means no food or water/liquids 6 hours prior to your procedure. If you are taking any medications it is best to check this with your surgeon and anaesthetist.
This level of anaesthesia can be performed in hospital only.

Two types of stay in hospital

• Stay in hospital for a short period after the operation and go home that day.
• Stay in hospital overnight after the operation and go home the next day.

Requirements for general anaesthesia

• No eating or drinking for at least 6-8 hours before the anaesthetic.
• If a smoker, you should stop for 3 weeks before the anaesthetic.
• If on any medication, it is essential to bring it with you to the hospital.
• If there is any change in your physical condition, such as a cold or fever, contact your clinician.
• If you have any relevant radiographs please bring them to the hospital.
• It is a good idea to wear loose comfortable clothing and footwear. Leave your jewellery and valuables at home. Bring your basic toiletry items with you, especially if you are staying overnight.
• You must not have any aspirin for at least 2 weeks before the operation. If there is pain, use paracetamol.
• No chewing gum before the anaesthetic as this will produce excess saliva which will pool in the stomach.

On admission to hospital

You may or may not be given an injection or tablets before the operation to relax you and induce drowsiness.

On arrival at theatre

The anaesthesia will be by injection into your arm or back of the hand, or by a mask placed on your face.

The operation

During the operation the anaesthetist will constantly monitor your breathing, pulse and blood pressure, and control these as necessary.

Recovery

After the operation if you have any significant pain or feel nauseous, an injection or tablet will be given to make you feel more comfortable.

• It is essential to be escorted home
• It is important not to swallow blood, as this will produce vomiting.
• You should expect a sore throat for the first 24 hours after the anaesthetic.
• Some people find their concentration is not the best for a few days after the anaesthetic. Important decisions should be avoided during this time, and note that people are legally not allowed to drive a vehicle for 24 hours after an anaesthetic.
• Most of the drugs are eliminated from the body shortly after the operation, but some remain for several days.
• Occasionally the vein used can become tender. If this occurs keep the arm warm and at chest level. Certain ointments can help ease discomfort.