As a adult, have you ever had general anaesthesia by mask induction over IV?

Quick question, how frequently are adults in the UK given general anaesthesia by mask induction over IV?

I'm curious if any of you have had general anaesthesia by gas/mask over IV as an adult?

I’m having knee surgery next month which will be under GA, and I’m just wondering what methods of general anaesthesia induction will be available to me? I am a 31 yr old male.

I know when I have blood tests; it often takes them multiple attempts and time to find my veins with lots of prodding around in my arms, so just wondering if they would offer me GA by mask induction, and then do the IV once I’m under?

Of course I know this is not a medical advice forum, just curious on others experience.

Regards.

Reply 1

mnot

Universities Forum Helper

Original post by Anonymous

Unless you have issues preventing you from taking general anaesthetic they will probably encourage iv. Basically they put a cannula in your hand straight into a vein, its a bit like getting an injection but it leaves a small access point they can put in the anaesthetic. They will probably get you to pump your hands a few times if you don’t have easy veins to find, ive had it a couple times and they have always made me feel comfortable and had no problem getting it in a vein (they are professionals, good at it and I wouldn’t worry)

Then they start giving you the stuff, they normally keep talking and in a handful of minutes you fall asleep (it’s not technically sleep but it’s similar), then at some point you re-awaken in a recovery room with nurses making sure you are safe, once you’re back with it they take you back to a hospital ward where you will probably be asked to hang around until you’ve eaten, drank & gone to the loo (basically making sure you’re functioning).

Ive never had a “spinal” (the other option) and frankly im not sure i have any appetite for being awake & aware during a live surgery on me even if it is painless. I am not a medical expert but I thought using a mask for anaesthetic was generally what was used for children, they probably could use it, but their will be an anaesthetist who is an expert at delivering this stuff & will come speak with you before your surgery and go through options. GA can be quite daunting but we live at a time where it’s expertly known and controlled, the hardest bit from my experience was the not eating all day (i like my food).

Caveat, not an expert.. just based off my experience.