What is general anesthesia, & why it matters to patients & surgeons

[@Ps119]

Just had surgery. It lasted more than 2 hours but from my perspective it took less than 30 seconds. I'm really grateful that these guys have the skills and equipment to do the great job they do. And grateful for the generations of dedicated scientists who grew the knowledge to where it is today. I hate to think how people suffered hundreds and thousand of years ago, and still do in some countries.

[@AshtonG2022]

I have a MRI on next Wednesday i believe and I’m supposed to be put under and I’m a bit nervous. The MRI isn’t supposed to be super long though.

[@OgdenM]

@@AshtonG2022, why would you need to put out for an MRI? I've had a few and never had any level of anesthesia. Just been told to hold still.. Even when I was getting an MRI on my sinuses.

[@daveroberts7295]

Anesthesia as we know it is a mid 20th century thing. Forget a hundred years, it was brutal in the 1920s and surgery was life threatening before the advent of antibiotics in the 1940s. Many died after having a successful surgery from infection. An ancestor was a surgeon from 1867 to 1897 and kept records which still exist, , he only considered a surgery successful if his patients lived and factored in the benefit to risk on every surgery, he only operated on people who would have a life changing improvement from the operation as the risk was death.

[@ColinDyckes]

@@AshtonG2022 The only time you should need a 'general' for an MRI is for a hi-res brain scan using a cage. This was done with my GF to plan her Parkinsons DBS implant placement route. Hope yours went well if the same!

[@MWALKLETT1]

"Here bite down on this" as the doc casualy saws off your leg!

[@Offthechartsoffroad]

I had 6 back surgeries in 1 year from an accident. The very last surgery I woke up basically about 1/3rd of the way through the surgery. They told me that they could not give me any more without the risk of basically killing me. They gave me the option to stop and finish later and I chose to finish. The attending nurse crouched down to see my face through the table and grabbed my hands and started talking to me through the rest of the surgery. She is an amazing person, and I will be forever grateful to her. That was the most pain I have ever felt and that is saying A LOT because I have been through some serious pain in my life! I have had 3 kidney stones at 1 time to say the least!

[@jo-annedurand4663]

I really like max he's very informative good luck with your career 😊

[@Sandoz-tq7qj]

How old are you ?

[@fellspoint9364]

Max is a great guy; candid, informative and genuinely helpful in bridging that physician/ patient gap. Best wishes on a long and successful career.

[@glenbearh9109]

I had surgery at this hospital and they were excellent-my only issue was that I was either not told or forgot that I was not under "general" but had a nerve block low in my spine so they could do a hip replacement. I was asleep but woke up during the surgery screaming "Im awake" they gave me more medication (Profolol maybe?) and I went back to sleep. Never found out what was making me sleep but I think profolol which I had during a colonoscopy and was semi-awake.

[@glenbearh9109]

BTW when I awoke, they put me back "under" very quickly-maybe because I was freaking out and almost broke the table ( as the surgeon told me in a joking way) So, good job!

[@darylhoskins5696]

@@glenbearh9109 Hell I woke Up While Getting 3 Stents ,Allmost 5 Hours procedure ,Saw Big Screen Monitor to my Left and all these Little Rivers on it and then saw One Blow up like an Baloon. I Said Damn that Dosen’t Look Good and Surgeon Yelled He’s awake and I said Something and He said shut the F..k. Up ,Then woke up in Hallway and Surgeon was talking to my Wife and I said did You tell me to shut the F..K. up and He said You remember that? and I Laughed and said don’t wory about it! They tried to insert stents through my arm and couldn’t so went up the Groin.

[@glenbearh9109]

@@darylhoskins5696 Wow can be scarey for sure.

[@darylhoskins5696]

@@glenbearh9109 Yes Sir and Yours Too! I woke up after an Car Accident .when I was 16 Well one eye swollen Shut and was getting Last Rights , Fractured neck ,Dislocated Right Shoulder ,Fractured multiple ribs on right Side which Pierced my Lung which Collapsed and I Drowned in my own Blood ,Kinda woke again when They Chest tubed me and Saw Blood Splatter on Nurses and Then they Paddled Me Twice to revive Me which I don’t remember. Surgeon Told My Parents to Think about Service’s Because Didn’t think I was Gonna make it ,now 50 Years Later ,Looking at Neck Surgery from that Accident ! But got it made compared to an Lot of Others! Wish You Well!

[@LancoAmish]

I was under general during a surgery 20 years ago. I told the surgeon later that I could hear conversations going on between him and the other surgeon and the nurses. He said I was mistaken. I told him what the conversation was about…his jaw dropped and said that wasn’t supposed to happen. He called for the anesthesiologist and we had a rather humorous conversation about it. I had no ill feelings toward him.

[@juliemanarin4127]

At least you didn't feel pain!

[@Inge68]

I hear the coversation and had pain as hell end coudend tell it.😪

[@petikan]

Yes you are lucky not to feel the cuts and prodding. This is actually a scary event if you are not totally under. I can understand why the doctor was shocked.

[@jaynemathiason3040]

When I had my first born by c-section, I was screaming in my head, I could feel the first uterine cut, then the second!!! The pain was unbelievably unbearable but there was NO way I could make any of the joking doctors aware of what was going on. I couldn’t move a limb, my mouth went numb, all sorts of crazy things were happening! I later found out during a physcian’s conference with those present in the room, that the reflexes go first(to sleep) and the nerves that reflect pain are the last to go to sleep! It was horrifying to say the least. I’m still traumatized and that happened 40 years ago!! More like PTSD to say the least. Half the cause of my insomnia to this day. I heard all about the wkend activities the doctors took in, everything about the past 3 days I could relate back to them. They realized it wasn’t all a figment of my imagination when I asked what purpose there was in yanking my head back as far as they did(to put the breathing tube down my throat). So much horror to a situation that should never have occurred. I had 6 doctors present in the surgical area while I related my horror story to them. I could barely put how I felt into words. I’ve been horrified ever since. I had another surgical procedure done in 2007 and was under for 5 hrs. The anesthesiologist administering the anaesthetic said I had😢no worries that time as the waiting time for the drug to take effect is longer and since she knew about my horror 😊story that would never happen again. She was in awe. She also said my story would be written up in a journal of pain medication errors during surgeries. My children feel I should write my own journal about it, along with the other stories, some good, some bad, of my life. As I said before, I really do suffer a traumatic event from that day, long ago.

[@jaynemathiason3040]

*waiting time for drugs to take effect now is shorter. This is a edit correction to a typo in my story. You’ll know it when you read it!

[@RJEngle1]

I recently had a medical procedure involving Propofol. I remember them saying they were giving me the medicine to help me relax And I remember thinking "that stuff burns" when I felt it entering my bloodstream and that's the last thing I remember before waking up in the recovery room, which I'm grateful for.

[@barryf5479]

I recently had a medical procedure that involved Propofol. That stuff was immediately "lights off" for me. No "I think I'm going under". It was one second being conscious and the next like not existing. I found it rather notable and for me, "alien". I keep remarking about how quickly it put me out.

[@cat-.-]

I received a large syringe of propofol (along with 2 large syringes of clear liquid) and I was elevating my head watching the thing go into my IV line and 3 or 4 seconds after the propofol injection I lose all strength, put my head down and it goes dark within 1 second. But for me it wasn't like an instant switch, it was a 1-second fade.

[@estelleschneider9033]

Barry..glad it was a good experience for you Propofol.. It was use for a colonoscopy I had..said if I did not havd it they would not do my test !!!!! I did not like that stuff..that is the stuff Michael Jackson used and died from..I can see why. I did not like it because I am extremely sensitive to chemicals and that is what these are and all medications The issue was. When I received Propofol it put me out immediately..this was not good for me because if there was a problem..I could not cry out.. Where with others I could.. Seriously, need to be careful.. When I was young lady married with children..I went to a dentist and allowed anesthesia for a tooth ..it was a horrible experience..I was having trouble. ..and could not speak..thank my God..upheld my life. .. Never again would I have it for teeth Although since then many changes have taken place in anesthesia.. depends who you see, training, and skill experience Propofol is a dangerous drug...to me it was awful feeling..frightening.. To have a Dr also say this is what you must have to do this test...what is that! Patients rights !!

[@joesweeney6152]

Most of mine were like that. But the last one, the doc said I should be feeling the anesthesia soon. Just then my eyes crossed and I said yep it’s working! Then I woke up 😆

[@geckoproductions4128]

I love Propofol. Instant lights out and wake up feeling rested and relaxed, like after a good nights sleep. Best of all, no anesthetic "hangover"

[@Sashazur]

Same. Recently had propofol and it was like instant lights out. Waking up was slower and very pleasant, the hospital bed and pillow seemed like the comfiest thing I’d ever slept on!

[@888meenbeeby]

I had my elbow rebuilt. My anesthesiologist was wonderful. During my waking up I had the best dream, the whole surgical team was at the beach with me on a warm sunny day with gentle waves 😅 I had a great experience because of this wonderful team and my orthopedic and anesthetic doctors. You all really brought the ‘A’ game, thank you

[@souledout3791]

What a pleasant and informative young man. He’s very easy to listen to . Thank You for sharing with the public an area that “ falls through the crack” when having surgery.

[@cathywestholt5324]

Thank you for choosing this specialty! It is so comforting to have a nice anesthesiologist discuss what to expect and gently let you drift off.

[@sophiasocal68]

I remember the Anesthesiologist saying " We'll see you on the other side" just before going out during my last surgery. Made me feel like I was expected to return.

[@kelseymathias3881]

that's good!

[@lisamorrison4636]

Ended up doing my final year elective in Anaesthesia and my research project topic was: Pain Expectations vs Reality and 100% of my subjects were in little to no pain post OP and 100% were in less pain than they expected. In other news, I finish med school in another 5 weeks! UPDATE: I AM A DOCTOR NOW!!! 🥲

[@sherrydawson6253]

Congrats 👏

[@tisha4lives]

Congrats to you.

[@sevenmilewhite1407]

How many days left? Or did you finish? Congratulations!!!!!!!

[@lisamorrison4636]

@@sevenmilewhite1407 thank you, i have been waiting to reply to this comment, as of one hour ago... I AM OFFICIALLY A DOCTOR! I PASSED 😭

[@mollierainbow3486]

Congrats!!🎊🎉

[@MeidasMJ]

I had a tonsillectomy at age 3. I remember waking up during the surgery but I don’t remember feeling anything. I do remember a nurse saying, in a rather panicked voice, “she’s awake”. The thing that was traumatizing was about 15 years later. I had knee surgery and was under general anesthesia. However, I wasn’t completely under when the surgery started. I don’t want to appear to be weak.. or childish .. anything like that. But , I have to admit that ever since then, when I have surgery, I’m always apprehensive. I felt the searing pain of the incision. I told the doctor everything that was said and what happened for the first few minutes of surgery. I’m so grateful that I went out after just a few minutes, whether I passed out from pain or by anesthetic. I’m just happy that didn’t last longer. I could not scream , except in my head. I could not open my eyes or move no matter how much I tried. I just couldn’t do it. So, now, I look the anesthesiologist in the eye and tell him/her….PLZ be sure I’m out. I don’t care what that means.. just make sure that I’m out. I know it sounds a bit like I’m a wimp.. I just don’t want to ever experience that again. I know I’m headed for more surgery. I really wish you were my anesthesiologist. Without ever meeting you in person, I know I can trust you.

[@stewiegriffin6503]

how many surgeries did you have ?

[@65CJ5]

I always tell my anesthesiologist that I do NOT want to be "comfortable," I do NOT want to be "out of it," I tell them I want to be OUT. Totally OUT and unaware of anything and that I tolerate anesthesia very well so don't be stingy with whatever they are using! Not sure if that helps, but at least I've made my wishes known beforehand.

[@traceykoontz2868]

That's awful I have been under a few times I can usually remember counting back from one hundred 😉, and I have had only novacaine to have all four of my wisdom teeth removed, not all at the same time.

[@andreaberryman5354]

My mom woke up too. Your anesthesiologist would have noted an increase in heart rate, indicating pain and fear, and upped you a tad.

[@chamonix2602]

"sound like a wimp"?! I have heard that patients who are paralyzed but awake during surgery are absolutely traumatized and never forget what they suffered!!

[@brendabowers2320]

Thank you Max for this information . I have undergone several general applications, and a few of the other less invasive. I woke up in the middle of surgery and could feel everything going on and was screaming through my throat so the nurse told the doctor , “ I think she is awake”. Now I do not know if she heard me or not, but i immediately went back under. It was a very scary thing to go through. I just want to thank you for taking time to explain the various methods.

[@kelamo7067]

Oh my!

[@lisaharrison1031]

The same thing happened to me. I came out briefly during a c-section. Was totally aware & could feel the pain and then I went back under. It scared me too.

[@fashiondiva6972]

@@lisaharrison1031 you were under general anesthesia for your c section? That sounds traumatizing on its own 🙁 I had a nerve block and was awake in the OR when my twins were born via c section.

[@deepthoughtswithjessica]

Are you a red head? They are much harder to keep under due to genetics.

[@kevinthebespectacledpilgrim]

My anaesthesia during heart graft surgery was wonderful. Before going under I felt extremely euphoric and happy. When I came round several hours later I had no pain though was a bit hallucinatory which was interesting. The extraction of the breathing tube was no problem and for several days after had heightened sensations of taste, colour, smell and vision. Every meal, even a slice of toast was like a banquet. No qualms about having general anaesthetic again.

[@MorganHorse]

Sounds like the fentanyl not the propofyl 😂

[@snowbie.]

@@MorganHorse I have received fentanyl + midazolam many times for sedation, and there were never any effects that persisted after awaking.

[@cletusberkeley9441]

Nice video. I'm a semi-retired, Biomed Support Engineer and specialist in anesthesia and life support equipment. Nice to see the clear facts presented and explained to the public on this potentially scary subject.

[@proudmarinemomma827]

I’ve been under general anesthesia a lot unfortunately. One of the times, I couldn’t remember my family, doctors or anything for over a week. My surgeon called it a global amnesia. Wasn’t sure if or when I’d come out of it. Thank goodness I came back to reality.

[@The_New_Abnormal_World_Order]

Wow!!

[@mimimomo4902]

Damn. That's scary

[@mushymystic]

I'm really glad you did too. There is absolutely no reason why you should experience brain injury or lasting cognitive impairment due to GA, don't be someone else's learning experience. Protect yourself (:

[@frankinbootyshorts]

I've been watching a ton of your videos recently because I've had a recent awakening: I love anesthesia and the feeling of actually doing something. I'm currently in Nursing school and now have a huge want to pursue CRNA school in my future, so these videos are super awesome for me and for my learning of anesthesia principles! Thank you for the content, you're helping a lot more people than you realize!! :)

[@leas7830]

👏

[@maxzytaruk8558]

I had general anaesthesia earlier this week, and honestly It felt a lot longer than I thought it would. Still so incredibly thankful for the anaesthesiologist and the pain blocking, what a blessing

[@SunshineandWhiskey23]

As a patient that has undergone multiple surgeries with general anesthesia and other types as well, I think anesthesiologists are the most important physicians in the operating room for the patient. When patients are under general anesthesia they are the patient’s advocate and they are the ones that have more knowledge about what is going on in the operating room (as far as monitoring) than anyone else. I have only met one anesthesiologist who was a complete ass, most are very willing to listen to you and what has worked for you in the past and very thorough in explaining what will be happening every step of the way. Surgery is scary for anyone, anesthesiologists (and nurses) make you feel safe, in my experience.

[@brodieyoutubestuff]

100% the best of the best! Always comfortable under their guidance. I've had a minor investigation done under twilight just by the surgeon and always felt more anxious

[@mweinheim7911]

I agree!!

[@socaljimmyd]

I agree! For my knee surgery my anesthesiologist was a rude woman, just wasn’t nice at all and just very rude! After surgery I felt like I’d been beaten with a bat the following day! My knee was sore but the rest of my body was hurting so bad! The next surgery I had on my hand after almost cutting off two fingers in a work accident. The anesthesiologist was amazing! Dr Lim was very thorough with his questions and made me feel very relaxed before surgery. After surgery, although my had hurt but the rest of my body felt great! I can’t get a good answer why my body felt like being beaten with a bat! It was just minor knee surgery to clean up my meniscus because it was torn and unrepairable and only about an hour and a half surgery. Where my hand was around 4-5 hours and that was to pin the bone where it was broken, reattach arteries, tendons, ligaments and nerves and clean all the wounds.

[@BluRN7]

I am elated at your words today as I too believe the anesthesiologist on deck at my procedures along with a few compassionate nurses, is the key success to quick recovery and feelings of being cared for as if we are related. My team of reconstructive surgeons which I have had 19+ years also have the warm, fuzzy compassion that only a true doctor can provide. Without them, my quality of life today would very limited. So FlyGirl, thank you for your eloquent description of what really matters the most in your personal situation and surgical procedure. Your words are true and concise with a layer of honest compassion needed not just by the surgeon but also the PATIENT !! Thank you again and best wishes in future endeavors.

[@tbong9293]

Also agree with you!

[@madarakreismane5570]

Had brain surgery 6 years ago, I know they started with propofol that time. I heard the anesthesiologist asking for it before I was knocked out. And I had heart surgery this year. I know they started with entirely different meds this time. It felt different, but I'm not complaining, six hours gone by in a heartbeat :D (I'm very thankful for the advancement of medicine and science :) )

[@crimsonpatty6152]

That sounds super scary hope you're out of the woods medically now!

[@madarakreismane5570]

@crimsonpatty Thanks :) Well, I see myself more like an interesting case? It helps. I am a rare disease patient, I'll always be at risk for something to go wrong, but one thing at a time. I was cleared to return to work, it's been ok 👍

[@kathy0698]

My colonoscopy was not fun. I don't think they gave me enough sedation as I felt pain.

[@crimsonpatty6152]

@Madara Kreišmane owgosh sorry to hear that but glad you're doing okay ATM ^_^

[@RobsMiscellania]

At the oral surgeon, I was told that the meds I was on could sometimes cause patients to become combative. He seemed unconcerned and said he'd use a very large dose of Valium before the anesthetic. I remember asking if they were about to put me to sleep and they said no, it's just the sedative, but I don't remember anything after 45 seconds, except for one thing. I recall becoming aware, but not really aware I was aware, that they were pulling on something and snipping it in my mouth, maybe like sutures. I recall the vibe feeling very professional and under tight control, and I experienced no pain and certainly no anxiety about it. I saw nothing. There was a calm, unexcited, deep voice using short sentences. I remember a total pause in conversation, as though they became aware that I had become aware, and very shortly after that I was unaware again. I was very drunk leaving, accidentally causing a picture frame to fall and smash on the wall in the hall on the way out. I tried to be very apologetic and pick up my mess but suddenly about four people surrounded me and were very gentle but firmly insisted I do nothing to try to help and that I had done nothing wrong. An experience I remember to this day!

[@stevenelson3515]

First time I had surgery was for a medical emergency where my intestines had rotated 540 degrees and were effectively shut off. They had been trying to “unscrew” them through the use of colonoscopy techniques, but they weren’t moving, so open abdominal surgery was needed. I recall going into the OR and telling the anesthesiologist I never had a general before and I was sure would fight it. He smiled, then said “Steve, what I’ll give you will put you out in…..” and that was the last I recalled until I woke up in the recovery room.

[@sliedogg]

That can happen? That sounds horrifying 😳

[@stevenelson3515]

@@sliedogg Yep. It’s called a volvulus, and, in my case, since it was my sigmoid colon, it was a sigmoid volvulus. About 18 inches of my colon had to be removed. For about three months, I had to wear a colostomy bag while the inflammation on the remaining sections of the colon reduced, then I had to have another surgery to reconnect the remaining sections. The twisting happened in early May and I got reconnected in mid-August. That was not a very fun summer.

[@sliedogg]

@@stevenelson3515 Thank you for sharing. I had no idea something like that could happen.

[@denisemessier4834]

Thank you Dr. Max! Thanks for all the anesthesiologists out there. You all have our lives in your hands. I’ve had general anesthesia twice and my concern was where is my anesthesiologist! Lol I never remembered a anything after being put out. Can’t thank you all enough for what you do.

[@davidadams9391]

I go for laparoscopic surgery on my right ureter on 7/6/22. I feel better prepared for the experience after watching your videos. They have detailed information that I don’t hear or understand when I go for surgery. I love your videos and thank you for teaching patient and staff about what to expect. Thanks Dr Max!

[@Kupkaik]

How did it go?

[@davidadams9391]

@@Kupkaik it went well! They put me out at 1:30 and woke me up at 6:30. They freed my bladder and moved it up to meet my ureter after the bad part was cut out. They also removed my nyphrostomy bag. I go back for a cystogram on 7/20/22 and hopefully they will remove my catheter and uretal stent if everything is okay. Thanks for asking!

[@sherrydawson6253]

I recently had a intrathhecal pump replacement. I do every 6 yrs. When the anesthesiologist told me I would nor be entubated my anxiety level increased 100 %. 1st time I wasn't. I must say it was the best post op experience. No I didn't feel a thing even though they closed the old muscular pocket and made a new one. I did have severe rib pain for 3 days for some reason. But all in all no incision pain.no awareness. That amazed me. I admire your field and your confidence.

[@sevenmilewhite1407]

What's the pump do/for? How long have you had it?

[@mathsiecat]

Awesome, another intrathecal pump user! I have a Medtronic running with morphine.

[@Justutube-we8mz]

I’ve had way too many surgeries and never really understood anesthesia. Thank you for your informative explanation. I love your videos and a, glad I found your channel. Keep up the good work!

[@DirtyLilHobo]

My recent experience as a patient in for a colonoscopy procedure was fabulous! Lying on the table just before the anesthesia was administered, I listened to the background noise of equipment cooling fans, and after what I perceived was just four or five minutes, it was over! I didn't feel a thing, had no memory of anything, and other than being bloated, I didn't know anything had happened!

[@starfishgurl1984]

This would’ve helped me tremendously in high school when I had my wisdom teeth removed, I have anxiety and struggled hard post operatively do to not fully understanding what kind of sedation I was supposed to have during the procedure and having it be the weirdest most helpless experience in my life so being prepared ahead of time would’ve gone a long way to adjust my expectations! I felt completely paralyzed with fear yet totally conscious and although I could think I couldn’t speak and it was as if I drifted in and out of consciousness sort of but yet I heard everything going on and time stood still but simultaneously felt like it was at warp speed and I was completely trapped in a nightmare I couldn’t get out of. I still remember hearing the crunching of one of the teeth being yanked and the dentist and his assistant talking completely oblivious to my awareness of what was going on and it freaked me out so bad because I was under the impression that I wouldn’t remember anything and was worried that my high pain tolerance effected my body’s response to the sedation/medication somehow but I had no way of knowing if my experience was normal or not. Totally has effected my anxiety about having post weight loss skin removal surgery eventually because I never want to experience anything like that again, it was very traumatizing! So thank you tremendously for this video, it helped in more ways than you know!

[@sevenmilewhite1407]

Did you discuss all this post op with the dentist?? What did they say? Truly scary !!!!

[@starfishgurl1984]

@@sevenmilewhite1407 no clue, I don’t really remember, my brother and I both had ours done back to back and our mom was in the waiting room with us and brought us home afterwards and that parts all kind of a blur because I was so worked up about what had happened. I know it wasn’t really the surgeons fault because he was like a 5 star surgeon in the area who’d been in business for a while (at least 20 years or a bit less because he did my dads too after they’d moved to the area) so it was probably just my sensory issues messing with me more than anything.

[@virginiamoss7045]

I had a similar experience with tooth extraction under nitrous oxide (and Novocain). I hated it and never allowed it again. The dentist was young and new and I heard tools drop to the floor and concerning talk with the assistant and he left the room for a short while; it took much longer than he predicted. Meanwhile my young daughter was waiting in the reception room all by herself. He prescribed a super strong painkiller, but I reminded him of what he already knew: As a single mother of a young child I couldn't be 'knowcked out'. I never went back.

[@413smr]

I had my wisdom teeth out a few decades ago. In addition to an anesthetic, he oral surgeon administered the stuff commonly referred to as "laughing gas" which put me into a kind of very foggy consciousness. At one point, I became aware that he was having trouble extracting one tooth - but it was as if it were happening to someone else, like I thought, "oh that's interesting."

[@toomanymarys7355]

That's normal for twilight sedation. They should have told you that you wouldn't be totally unconscious.

[@413smr]

So far, I've only had one surgery, the removal of my gall bladder (cholecystectomy). When I woke up in the recovery room, the anesthesiologist was right there waiting bedside to tell me that I was "difficult to intubate" and if I needed surgery in the future, I should tell the doctor. I asked the surgeon about this during a follow-up appointment and she responded vaguely, "oh yeah something wasn't where we thought it would be" and this situation had added about a half hour to the surgery.

[@candacecurtis5739]

I have had many surgeries. I always make sure to appreciate the anesthesiologist as the super important Dr that they are. They are always shocked that I don’t defer more to the surgeon. Understand that my simplest procedures meant that the most important person in the room for those was in charge of my breathing and heart function and level of sedation. I’m so grateful.

[@Skatejock21]

I dont think a lot of people understand what general anesthesia is. I think its great that you made this video. A lot of people dont see that when you use general anesthesia, its a surgery. Not all surgeries use general anesthesia either but still are surgeries. I have had a couple surgeries under general anesthesia. I didn't wake up feeling like rainbows and sunshine but I was glad I didn't know what was going on. I was a child and scared but I am glad I dont remember anything, even as an adult. I see scars and know how I got them but I dont have to explain the details I dont even remember. There was a video that came up on my feed about a guy who says he was supposed to be asleep on general anesthesia but was awake and felt everything and couldn't respond. It would be nice to see you do a video for your take on that. I see your videos and even having been put under myself, I just wonder how it could be for this person.

[@debbie4503]

Yes, please!

[@jamesmcd71]

I'm fascinated by Anesthesia. I regret not getting into it when I was younger. I've looked into going to school but at 51 all I hear is " you do know how much time is required to get into Anesthesiology." So now I spend my time trying to learn as much as possible.

[@merrittpeterson2067]

Consider being an Anesthesiology Assistant! Our program has had people as old as 50 go into the field

[@SuperWiz666]

How much time does it take.

[@WickedPhase]

@@SuperWiz666 Several years, my uncle has been in the field for over 2 decades!

[@michellenainkristinabusch1221]

​@@SuperWiz666 About 16 years

[@lauraclardy-sikes190]

I recently had sinus surgery. I heard an Anesthesiologist talking to another patient about the difference in old drugs verses new. Something about how they get out of your system faster do you have less exhaustion. This is what brought me to you. I have been trying to find info on this. A week later, and I’m still exhausted.

[@Portia620]

Talk to your doctor!!! Heart issues can do that!!! See a doctor!

[@albertlanger2339]

I can't express enough my love to you, Surgeons, Nurses, etc - for keeping me alive. for 50+ years.

[@majorcarlton137]

I would absolutely trust this young man being under his care.

[@anjeliaoronzo7984]

i had emergency surgery at yale new haven hospital in november. my anesthesiologist was a rockstar and made me feel so safe and cared for. thanks for all you guys do :)

[@bswls3]

This is a great video with good information. One improvement might be to educate your viewers that nurse anesthetists also deliver safe anesthesia. Especially in more rural areas, nurse anesthetists provide over 80% of all anesthetics without the presence of anesthesiologists. No studies to date have shown any difference in outcomes regardless of the anesthesia provider. Yes, I am a nurse anesthetist, and I have practiced for 40+ years in mostly rural settings. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are fully qualified to provide every type of anesthesia in every setting where anesthesia is required. Full disclosure please.

[@brendaa7726]

Just had surgery last week and was being put under for the first time. As a person that suffers with severe health anxiety …I was terrified and having a total panic anxiety. I was a mess crying,vomiting, etc…I was given a sedative to relax yet I was still scared, the anesthesiologist told me he was administering the med, and last thing I remember was telling him I didn’t want it yet, and then I was waking up in recovery. Surgery was 3 hrs but time felt like it never passed. If you’re reading this and scared, I promise you’ll be fine. Take it from someone that was terrified as hell. Now, I can go under without being as nervous as I was. A lot of people say they wake up feeling well rested, but I didn’t really get that affect. I was just more in pain from my surgery procedure.

[@deverene8]

I wasn’t put under enough when I had my wisdom tooth taken out, I told the doctor (my boss) after I woke up, what he said during surgery and I thought he was going to pass out😂 I’m just grateful I didn’t feel any pain, I just felt him turning my head & making comments so I’m always very leery of going under general!

[@MrJamiez]

Why would you Need an GA for one tooth to be taken out? 🤣

[@grantyentis5507]

I just had a surgery involving my hand the other day, my anesthesiologist was amazing! I didn't feel a thing and wasn't aware of anything either. When I came to, I felt great and could have just walked out even though they used a wheelchair. No nausea or dizziness, she was my hero! I mentioned your videos and got a smile!

[@dianeleone1634]

Wowwwzzzzaaaaaa. Recently I had cataract surgery. I was extremely nervous even though I had taken both of my parents 20-30 years ago and knew tons of people who had the same procedure. I believe it was less than 10minutes. Seeing a video of the process ,😎 Interesting podcast. Thank you Max💜

[@RainbowLovingRainbow]

I woke up during a procedure once when I was young. I don’t know how the anesthesiologist missed the fact I opened my eyes and started screaming, but he did. I saw them quickly draw up some propofol and I was out again, but when the procedure was over and I was in recovery, I was pissed off beyond all comprehension. I remembered about five minutes of being open, on the table, draped, and with an oral airway stabilizer in my mouth. Fortunately I wasn’t’ t paralyzed so I was able to sound the alarm that all was not well. I’m very thankful no paralytic had been administered and my heart goes out to those who became conscious but were unable to make the physicians aware of what was going on and that they could hear and feel everything.

[@DexKoontz]

I have had too many surgeries, and this video would have been handy 23 years ago when I experienced my first time being put under for a UUVP. The experience was great. It was a long surgery. My next anesthesia was for a colonoscopy. In my opinion I was way over sedated. Since that one, I have had no sedation for colonoscopies. My next surgery was to repair/reattach the tendon connecting my bicep to my forearm. Again, a great experience. In December '15 I was under for 4 hours for a "simple" kidney stone removal from my right ureter. I remembered the moment I went under and the moment I came to, staring at a clock at both ends of the surgery. I was shocked that it took 4 hours. They chipped my top right front tooth during that surgery as well. Fortunately the chip was saved and a cosmetic dentist repaired it. They blew through my right ureter and left the stone requiring a return trip to the O.R. twelve days later to go after it. The second surgery lasted 20 minutes and the stone was removed. Much infections and complications followed. An endoscopy was next -- in and out. Then an arthroscopic to clean up my knee. No problem. At that time, I was still living with the thought that every time I was put to sleep it was general anesthesia. THEN I had a full knee replacement -- they used General Anesthesia, and man did I know the difference! No more if I can avoid. I had hallucinations for weeks afterward; not unpleasant or scary, some almost funny, but definitely hallucinations. Two separate shoulder surgeries after that, and anesthesia not as pleasant as previous. Before the surgeries, I was sent a link to watch and learn about "going under." But they covered none of what you did here. In none of my surgeries did the anesthesiologist explain what you stated they should. I had no idea until this video. Thank you! I don't plan on any more surgeries. But at least now, I've learned much about what is what. 👍

[@MasterJennaMcLain]

Hospital pharmacy tech. The four most common meds I refill in an anesthesia pyxis: propofol, rocuromium, fentanyl, and midazolam. This video really explains why they the most commonly used.

[@jessesarmiento2675]

These are the unsung heroes of surgeries. Most times people speak of the surgeon but the anesthesiologist job is just as difficult. I have been under quite a few times without any problems. I've had blocks as well without problems. I did have a penial block and that was really painful. I must point out that the procedure was done by a Urologist and not an Anesthesiologist. Three weeks ago I had a cornea transplant and there were two anesthetic procedure. One was what the Anesthesiologist called Twilight and the other was to block my neck and head. I was awake throughout the entire surgery. All was well. Lastly. Anesthesiologist make the most money out of all specialties.

[@larryjohns8097]

I was a nurse for lots of years. Thankful for bright thoughtful caring dedicated people like Dr Feinstein. He’s FUN too !!!!

[@andreaberryman5354]

You guys are geniouses. Complicated, critical and very dangerous job. I've heard you look for increasing heart rate as indicating fear and pain. I quit breathing last surgery. Came to briefly being yelled at to breathe.

[@m.5748]

As an Experienced Nurse, I Appreciate this Video! You are a Great Instructor, and Your Calm demeanor is Very Reassuring to me, and I'm sure, to Your Patients also! Thankyou So much!🙂

[@ilovetotri23]

While the surgeons are believed to be the super star of the OR, and so many are worthy, I noticed from an early age that the anesthesiologists are true heroes. You meet them briefly for a very important discussion before your surgery, and then in the OR and that is it! Kudos to all the hard work you do! You are awesome!

[@natashak3387]

I am finally having a very big surgery to help with a right upper extremity deformity. After waiting more than twenty years I am finally ready for less pain and possible function. I had a bad experience with my anesthesiologist and anesthesia in March and i cross my fingers that this time will be much more pleasant. It's going to be rough for a while, but totally worth it

[@darriontunstall3708]

Great video man! That was great info! I learned a lot, I can’t wait to start Donating to the anesthesiologist Foundation in August since It was hard for me to go to college to be a anesthesiologist after I graduated high school in 08 because of my cerebral palsy, I’m excited! I have had 14 surgeries because of my cerebral palsy I’m 32, Anesthesiology is a great field!!! You rock man! I have always wanted to be a anesthesiologist every since I was a kid!

[@evandegenfelder4554]

I wish I had seen this video sooner. I have an ablation in two days and I really hope the anesthesiologist will explain it all to me this clearly.

[@greendegenerationx]

Love your vids Max, I’m an ODP in the UK and your vids are super informative for me and interesting to see how many similarities and differences we have in practice between the US and UK

[@duke2011ful]

I had a hysterectomy several years ago, and I woke up early and was in extreme pain. It freaked out the nurse.

[@ColKurtzknew]

Talking with my anesthesiologist prior to a procedure he told me " I don't get paid to put you out but to bring you back."

[@littlebunnybunny]

i woke up during gen/ anaes and heard and saw the doctors ..the pain was horrific ..i fainted

[@mushymystic]

💜

[@ruthgallagher1168]

Thank you for this. I haven't had general anestesia since I was 16, so 40 years ago. I was scared but this really helped.

[@TheDisneylover23]

That was super helpful. Thank you for posting it. I think it’s important that people know what is what and what to expect. Excellent work🥰

[@forestfruits1]

Thank you for this clear and informative video. I had my first general op last year. It was a minor op (I was out for about 30 mins apparently,) and was given IV sedation and I believe gas (I had a mask popped onto my face before going completely under.) As they put the mask on, I felt a rush of tingling up into my face. The last thing I remember was a nurse asking me what my favourite drink was. I got as far as "Cherry Co...." before everything went black. Next thing I remember was being wheeled into the recovery ward. The only slightly crappy thing was that in the weeks following the procedure, I was having breathing issues/chest tightness. Best way I can describe it was feeling like a band around my chest and being hyper aware of my breathing. I did get this checked out and they found nothing alarming with my heart or lungs, but did put it down to "potential mild pleurisy". It resolved after maybe a couple of weeks, but I've always wondered that kind of reaction is at all common?

[@BillSmith-rx9rm]

I've seen lots of stories about people that have said they were awake during surgery but were paralyzed and could not move to let anyone know they were awake. This is very concerning because it seems like that could cause extreme anxiety and stress, possibly to the point of having a heart attack and dying. And maybe this could be the reason for some people so-called "dying on the operating table." And a secondary issue to this is that while drugs are given to cause amnesia, some people claim to remember. That brings me to a case of my own during one of my surgeries. I was having a lymph node biopsy and was not under general anesthesia, but a lighter form. After waking up in the recovery room, I had the very distinct and strange feeling that the surgeon was asking me very inappropriate questions during the procedure. This has nagged me for years. And the strange thing is, that particular surgeon left the medical field. Coincidence? I've always wondered if a nurse or someone in the operating room reported him and he was forced to resign or something like that. Of course the medical profession keeps things like that tight lipped amongst themselves and it would never get out for anyone to know.

[@KariTSays]

Happened to me. I woke up during surgery. They didn’t believe me until I told them their conversation and how they dropped a tool. When I woke up in recovery I was screaming and crying. Freaked my husband out. They had the whole hospital come speak to me and tried to tell me it was when I was waking up. What I felt was not when I was waking up! It felt it all!! Was so traumatic

[@Andyc18]

Had a tonsillectomy yesterday. Was put to sleep at around 2pm, the operation lasted around an hour and I was awake by 3:30pm! I don't remember any of the operation. I remember laughing and joking with the nurses in theatre while I was being injected with anaesthetic and the next thing I remember is waking up in the ward after 🤣 It went really well and I didn't even feel groggy after i'd woken up. No dizzyness or nausea, which is what I was expecting. The NHS here in the UK are incredible and as stretched as they are right now, they do an amazing job.

[@nick066hu]

Thank you for the thorough information. One thing I always wanted to ask an anesthetist: I have had four operations under general anesthesia in my life. The first two were 20 and 10 years ago, at that times I felt very dizzy, nauseous after waking up, it was like a strong seasickness, would have even vomited if there were something in my stomach, it was very unpleasant as I recall it lasted for 1-2 hours and then gradually went away. On the third occasion (it was in an expensive private clinic, so) the anesthetist had a chat with me a few days before the procedure, explained everything, and asked if I felt dizziness, nausea after my previous surgeries, I said yes, and he made an X on his papers (unfortunately I did not ask what it meant). and that time I didn't feel dizzy after waking up. The same repeated the fourth time, but that time I was proactively warned the anesthetist about my tendency to dizziness because I had a hernia operation, and was somewhat worried that my vomiting muscle movement could do harm to my fresh hernia stiches (mesh displacement, whatever) but also this time I was OK, could even stand up and walk almost right after I woke up in my room. My question: have they changed my medication, is there some additional medicament I was given to avoid this waking up dizziness? Is there a treatment for this, or it was just some placebo effect or just luck?

[@hoperising7373]

Probably added an anti-nausea med. That’s what my anesthesiologist told me he did when he asked if I had any negative effects to anesthesia before.

[@ryant9876]

I work within a OR. The seasickness, dizziness symptom is a common thing amongst patients, its the effects of the reversal drugs that are used to wake you up. They can give you a anti-sickness drug. if they know you have woken up with symptoms, feeling sick, dizziness, migraines etc then the X is probably way of reminding himself to give you that.

[@bordereau1]

I recently underwent hernia surgery and was very clear telling the anesthesiologist I had bad "wakes ups" with violent dry heaving. Guess what? Yup, again this happened. Make it crystal clear you have issues if you have!!!

[@LisaKnobel]

The most important thing I've learned is to describe my past experiences with anesthesia. Some really good and some really bad. When I describe what happened, they seem to understand immediately and will adjust. I never have those situations duplicated. Communication is key. Give them a thorough history of your experiences.

[@onepawatatime7925]

Could you do a video on anesthesia with patience with complex pre existing health conditions? Like in born errors of metabolism or other genetic disorders?

[@rln970]

I experienced my first anesthesia (other than tonsils at age 5) when I had a hip replacement due to osteoarthritis. Being a typical engineer, who prefers being "in control", I was very apprehensive and did not sleep for two days ahead of the surgery.. I wish I had had some counseling, which this video is outstanding. I really enjoy your videos. I have always been interested in medicine, but electrical engineering won out as a career.

[@FerociousPancake888]

Very informative and well done! Kept making me think about the vet video and thinking about how hard this must be to do on cats/small dogs/etc.. I haven’t seen a sponsorship on these vids before so if this is the first one congrats! I think a vid on budgeting/housing as a resident especially in a place like NYC would be awesome.

[@bellememorie]

Thank you for this. My son has to have some dental work done under anesthesia (he has Autism and gets full on panic attacks even under gas and anti-anxiety meds). I'm a little anxious about him being under anesthesia and I appreciate the understanding your video provided. Thanks so much!

[@lifeonlowbatteries8153]

I just love this channel. ❤️ Thanks for another great video Dr. Feinstein !

[@KitsuyuutsuR]

I’d had surgery before, it was no big deal. What freaked me out was when I had to have a DNC and hysteroscopy done. I was told I would be given “twilight sleep” and wouldn’t be totally asleep so I might remember what happened but chances were I wouldn’t remember anything. I have anxiety, so this wasn’t good and was a frightening explanation. When I got in the procedure room, they had to put my arms out to my sides and strap them down. I freaked… I was freaking out on the nurse, crying, asking her to please let me out. While I was looking at her, the anesthesiologist was on my other side and I felt a stab in my hand. I said, “Ow!” still crying, then I suddenly started feeling loopy. Apparently he’d given me an anti anxiety before whatever he knocked me out with because I was freaking out so bad. I remembered nothing and that shot kept me calm all day. Next was a year or 2 later, an endoscopy. Same deal. They used propofol. I was worried I’d remember what was done but nope, not a thing. I’ve had 2 endoscopies, 3 colonoscopies and another DNC and hysteroscopy since, all with propofol. I don’t remember a thing. The down side to the colonoscopies is they need to put the IV in my right arm. That vein collapses a lot so it’s painful to have it in there. I asked the anesthesiologist if he could please push the medicine slowly as it was already hurting (my vein was an unhappy camper) and told him why. He happily agreed then said, “Plus you’ll get a nice buzz before you konk out!” and laughed 😂 Hey, works for me! So he did and I got a great buzz! They also used propofol on my dog to knock him out before they put him to sleep… When the vet told us what she was going to do and mentioned what meds she was going to use, I said, “Oh! Propofol is good stuff! You’re going to like that, Nobu, you’ll feel all loopy and stupid!” The vet looked at me and smiled and told me that was why she loved me, because I did my research and knew so much about what was going to happen. I told her I’d taken many propofol naps myself, that’s how I knew. Needless to say, I told her to push it in slow so he’d go out with a nice buzz and she did. My last gift to my old friend. ❤ It’s amazing what anesthesiologists do for a living. And they’re just as important as the surgeons. Even more so, actually. They have to make sure we stay out during procedures and surgeries and if we’re too anxious, we get a shot of something nice to calm our nerves before we even get anywhere near the OR because they know we need it. They deserve more thanks than they get 😊❤

[@PsRohrbaugh]

One thing I would like to see more of is medical records portability. I've had a half-dozen general anesthesia surgeries over the past 20 years in different counties and states, and while I trust that future anesthesiologists have adequate abilities, I would think having access to previous case notes would be nothing but good.

[@ALNizhoni]

You're the one in charge of that. You need to request to have your medical records/surgery notes sent from whatever doctor(s) you had previously to the new doctor. Whenever you change medical providers, you should have the records sent. While it would be amazing to have this capability nationwide (some states have something like this for all insurance carriers in that state), it's still your responsibility to ensure that your records get from your previous doctors to your current doctor. And if your surgeon/doctor isn't asking that you do this? Something is very amiss. This is a baseline level of care, so especially if they don't ask, you need to do your job to make sure your records travel with you from one doctor to the next. And if you can't get that info to your anesthesiologist, then it's your job to tell them in the OR on the day of surgery anything you're aware of (and you should know by now how you respond to general). (Signed, Someone who has also had multiple surgeries over the past several years in more than one location.)

[@carlmontney7916]

Thanks for this great video. Now as a patient I will have a way better understanding now of what is involved in anesthesiology.

[@lohith2003]

Sir, your videos are fantastic. I've been following your videos for quite some time. This has helped a lot of med students like me. I recently went through a post about single lung ventilation on Instagram and I was wondering if you could make a video on that explaining everything about it like why it should be done? When it should be done and possible complications associated with it. This will help a lot.

[@Amy-fp8us]

Ty for your channel. I have an upcoming surgery and watching your channel has giving me a sense of calm towards the surgery.

[@markfrabotta19]

Very good video. I've been reading on the internet course it take it with a grain of salt I had knee surgery 11 months ago. But I heard that general anesthesia can long-term effects in memory loss as an older patient I was just kind of curious on that the side effects of anesthesia has on the brain. And again very good video thank you very much :-)

[@Dhi-fe5eu]

During a cataract procedure of my eye. I was told that I can respond to commands though I have no memory or ever felt anything but being asleep.

[@drrocketman7794]

What about a patient that becomes combative during recovery? I have heard of many cases where a patient starts to fight with nurses or other hospital staff when coming out of anesthesia.

[@mxr572]

great surgeries would not be possible without anaesthesia and doctors who are trained to use it. thank you.

[@breebrat56]

I honestly love learning more about anesthesiology! I’ve watched your videos and Dr Kristina Braley’s Videos multiple times and learned more every time! I’m not in the medical profession or in med school, but it’s still extremely fascinating! If I did choose to go to med school and it came time to pick my specialty…. Anesthesiology would be in my top 3 choices! Y’all who have chosen this specialty: you’re awesome and I seriously appreciate you taking such amazing care of me and other’s before, during, and after surgeries! ( I have actually stunned my anesthesiologist’s when asking very specific and knowledgeable questions prior to my surgeries! 😂 I get the question of “ are you in the medical field??? “ very frequently! ) Thanks for providing the knowledge for people to ask the right questions prior to their surgeries and procedures! It seriously helps reduce the uncertainty and anxiety! ❤️

[@rainbowmouse373]

Do patients lose control of bladder/bowels when under general anesthesia? I had surgery recently and after the pre-op and during surgery fluids I needed the bedpan numerous times in the PACU. So I assume some control remains but how when there is no real control of the body? I had the same questions after another surgery with GA a few years ago. Could you solve the mystery? Thanks!

[@stormdancer25]

People who get drunk also lose urinary , bowel control - IMHO.

[@ccoop3774]

Sometimes patients wet the bed during surgery. Usually with surgeries lasting over 2 hours, we inserted a foley after the patient was intubated. It's not good for the bladder to become over distended.

[@mrs.c5471]

I just had surgery and was there one minute and boom out the next! Waking up after the surgery was easy. My anesthesiologist Ned, was the bomb!

[@matt566]

Can you do a video talking about risk stratification of the different anesthia states and health conditions implicating risk? Like GERD and aspiration, heart conditions and the risks there, genetic conditions and malignant hyperthermia and the associated mitigations and solutions/checks.

[@matt566]

I have congential ptosis and marcus gunn syndrome both of which Ive read are associated with malignant hyperthermia as well as diastolic dysfunction and hyperexpanded lungs likely caused by downstream damage from fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Ive expressed all these concerns with doctors before and in the hospital setting they’re always very dismissive and tell me not to worry everything will be fine with absolutely no addressing of my specific concerns, even at what should be top level facilities in the United States (UCLA, Cedar Sinai). It feels like they’re pressuring me into doing it or overconfident in themselves and the procedure because hey they work on Old people all the time there’s no way this 30 year old is in much danger. This makes me immediately very distrusting and decline the procedures even though there are two procedures now they say are fairly necessary. It has been a standstill for years now.

[@kana-is-sleepy]

@@matt566 Although I don’t work in the OR myself, my mom has been an OR nurse for 12+ years now, so I’ve learned a lot from her about various surgical subjects. In regards to your malignant hyperthermia, the hospital staff you’ve talked to are right- it IS no big deal if they already know you have risk factors for it. That’s why your doctors and anesthesiologists will always ask about that before any procedures. If you do have risk factors for malignant hyperthermia, it’s very easy to avoid; the syndrome is associated with specific medications that can be used during surgery, but there’s plenty of alternatives they can and will use instead. MH doesn’t happen often because it’s actively screened for before surgeries, so it can definitely be avoided. They even clean the gas machines and can also use special filters to prevent cross-contamination. On the rare occasions that it does happen due to unknown history, your anesthesiologist and OR staff will be able to spot it almost instantly due to how carefully you’re being monitored. There’s a medication antidote that can be given if MH does happen, but like I said, awareness of this syndrome has made it very rare nowadays. As for your other issues, I can totally understand your anxiety, because I have a rare genetic disorder that causes congenital heart disease. I also have narcolepsy, which seems innocuous, but it can make it harder for me to come around quickly after surgery, and the medications that are used to treat it can make anesthesia tricky sometimes. My point is, anesthesiologists have worked with lots of surgeries, and they know how to handle patients with all sorts of conditions. If they think surgery is too dangerous with your medical history, then they won’t do it. Or, they’ll do things to help manage your conditions beforehand to optimize your health so your in the best shape possible before you undergo surgery. Either way, I know they’re not trying to be dismissive of your medical issues and risk factors, they’re just trying to reassure you. I promise, they really do know how to manage stuff like this as long as you let them know beforehand. And it sounds like you know your medical history well, so that shouldn’t be an issue! Don’t wait on important surgeries because of your anxiety over this, go talk to them about it, and then trust them when they say it’ll be ok. Your OR team knows what they’re doing.

[@kana-is-sleepy]

@@matt566 I also did some quick reading about hyperinflated lungs, and it’s often caused by COPD, which is a common condition that your anesthesiologists have definitely seen many times before. They’ll definitely know exactly how to manage that before, during, and after your procedures. In fact, there’s even a surgical procedure that can help treat hyperinflated lungs, so that’s a great indicator that surgery can absolutely be performed safely with your condition.

[@matt566]

@@kana-is-sleepy I also have what seems like a mast cell disorder which has not been fully diagnosed or figured out and that makes things even more sketchy because they cant even tell me the risk of it... the surgeries in question are a diagnostic endoscopy and dental surgery

[@matt566]

its really hard to agree with whatyoure saying with my past medical trauma i just see what seems like carelessness and instantly pull away by instinxt

[@patriciawilliams9602]

I recently had foot surgery in January 2023 I was so scared of getting put to sleep but I had some of the best Doctor's & staff at the hospital I was at. They told me that I would be fine & that they would take care of me. All I remember was the Doctor saying take a deep breath & the next thing I knew the nurse was saying take a deep breath it was over & the surgery was an hour & a half long.

[@KeithTaylorPhoto]

My wife, who is a perioperative nurse, has requested that you do a video on malignant hypothermia. More specifically, early signs vs. late signs. She says she’s interested in learning more about it for patient safety. I’m interesting in learning more about it because I can be kind of a nerd like that.

[@conditionallyunconditional5691]

You're essentially the Aircraft Commander throughout the procedure.

[@frostar701]

Could you talk bout the time up to 1980 were kids were not given anesthesia or pain meds just a Paralytic? I was one of them and had a surgery when 4 1971 & screamed the whole time in my head. I’m 55 now and still have nightmares about this. There seem to be no help for us.

[@shanzaayub5824]

I had my surgery last year completely safe and successful . I get ruminations . Sounds, voices, beeps, the gases Bd it's flavour still afresh

[@priscillafrye2951]

That doesn't sound right, were you in the US? I had my tonsils out when I was about two, in 1963, I actually remember being in the hospital. They DEFINITELY gave me anesthesia for the surgery and I don't remember much pain afterward except for a bit of a sore throat. I think a couple of my friends when I was young had surgeries and they had anesthesia and pain relief.

[@johnroberts6695]

I recently had retina surgery. Towards the end of the procedure, the anesthesia, I began feeling pain. I told the surgeon I was experiencing pain, but there was no relief. It felt like someone was using an ice cream scooper on my eye! So I just gritted my teeth and put up with it. If I ever go under any anesthesia again, I'm going to tell the anesthesiologist beforehand what happened and ensure that it doesn't happen again. I was gripping the sides of the table so tight my fingers probably left indents! It wasn't my first time under (I tell people I've had more operations than Seal Team 6). Whenever I have the choice, I'll always go general.

[@marycrisher9332]

I had a total knee replacement 2 months ago and had a spinal before going into operating room . I woke up during the surgery and my first thought was this was pretty cool because I can't feel anything. I could hear surgeon and residents talking about how great the robotic arm was. I started moving my head around to see what I could see. The anesthesiologist asked me if he could do anything for me and I said yes.... I was awake! Needless to say that's the last thing I remember. Having an endoscopy soon and am paranoid about being put under. I learned from this pre-op nurse that they had to administer a drug to reverse the effect if the anesthesia in the recovery room. Any idea what they had to administer in the recovery room? This is the second time I have woken up during a procedure. And they wonder why my anxiety level is high when it comes to anesthesia.

[@ccoop3774]

With your spinal, you were sleeping because you had IV meds. You weren't under general anesthesia. There's a difference. With your TKR, it's ok that you woke up. They just gave you some more medication to make you drowsy again. I have had patients that didn't want to be knocked out. They talked to us during the whole surgery. Now, if you were to wake up with a general anesthesia mid operation, that's a big deal.

[@marycrisher9332]

Thank you for explaining but it increases my anxiety for having any procedure done in future. This was the second time that I have woken up.

[@ccoop3774]

@@marycrisher9332 But it sounds as if you haven't "woken up" from a general anesthesia. That's what the term waking up from surgery really applies to. You have only had IV sedation and a block. It's perfectly normal to remember conversations to actually waking up during the procedure. There's only so much sedation they can give you where you can retain your airway. However, after a bit of time, you can have more medication. Having anxiety is completely normal too. Whenever you have a presurgical interview, just tell them of your anxiety. Whatever you can tell your surgical team beforehand helps the team and you.

[@ronaldhall9701]

Thanks Max I am getting older and think of things that younger people don't as a rule. I will be checking in on you as things come up thanks for the help sir

[@lifeonlowbatteries8153]

Question: How long does it actually take you to write, set up, film, edit, and post a 14 minute video like this one? I’m always curious about the production on the videos I watch.

[@MaxFeinsteinMD]

In total, I spent about 15 hours on everything involved with this video. It’s pretty typical for me to spend about an hour of time per minute of final video. I actually made a video about “how a doctor runs a KZbin channel” if you’re interested!

[@lifeonlowbatteries8153]

@@MaxFeinsteinMD hey thanks for taking time to respond! It means a lot. I’m going to go find that other video. I think I’ve watched it before but I want to watch it again. Have a great day!

[@juliemanarin4127]

I have had 15 surgeries...the worst thing that happened...unfortunately...was during a MAKO robotic total knee replacement. The anesthesiologist gave me a femoral nerve block...and damaged the nerve permanently. I had to see a neurologist and had an EMG and was told it was most certainly damaged and it has been 5 years now. Parasthesia at the knee and outside of the thigh...burning and stinging...every day. What a mess. He actually is a good anesthesiologist...I have had him a few times...but I need my other knee done and I will never have another nerve block again.

[@jzoe7382]

I had a surgery 2 years ago, when I was in the recovery room, I overheard the nurses were talking about my blood pressure dropping during the surgery and they had to inject me something in which caused my blood pressure spike to 180/ , I woke up felt like I was having a heart attack, maybe my heart rate was quite high or something went wrong during the anaesthesia, no one explained to me what had happened in my situation, can you explain what were the possible causes ? Thanks.

[@MaxFeinsteinMD]

Without knowing your medical history, the surgery, or the anesthesia plan, I can’t really comment on what happened. I can say that most anesthesia medications decrease blood pressure while they’re being administered, so it’s common for us to give medications to counteract that to bring up blood pressure during surgery.

[@jzoe7382]

@@MaxFeinsteinMD thank you for your reply. Much appreciated.

[@trishaferreira2309]

1982, I was under general anesthesia and in the process of having gall bladder removal. At that time, a long incision was made on the right side of the torso. In the middle of my surgery...I woke up. I couldn’t move my body, I felt no pain, but I could hear and see. I glanced my eyes down and could see my liver or a large organ pushed to the side. I could hear the doctor and nurses talking, but they were out of view. All of a sudden I heard someone say, “SHES COMING OUT OF IT!” and felt pressure on my face...and I was out. I thank the good Lord that I felt no pain. But it was an experience I hope to never have that happen again, but I always tell medical staff about what happened to me.

[@gracier2718]

Question about this, I got my wisdom teeth done and I got a shoulder surgery. Both I was out for, the shoulder surgery was like your normal general anesthesia with breathing tube and all the fun equipment. For my wisdom teeth, I was put out, but never got a breathing tube. What would be the difference between those two types of anesthesia/how deep was I under for my wisdom teeth?

[@monicaperez2843]

@Joshua N. Joshua, my oral surgeon is both a dentist and a MD. I would receive IV sedation to have a tooth pulled because I have torai (thin pocket of bone), that if not removed, would be a reservoir of infection in the jawbone.

[@gracier2718]

Ahh i see. Thank you so much. That would make perfect sense

[@rosebudadkins6803]

I had surgery 8-23-22. Nice job and I didn’t get sick from anesthesia this time. 😀. They put a scopolamine patch behind my ear. I had to wear it for three days.

[@fredericbuchanan5570]

I'm having a "conscious sedation" for a dental procedure. In the past, even fentanyl didnt help for the pain, I was told I wouldnt feel a thing nor remember the procedure... But I remember feeling everything, i remember telling the dentist and not being listen to, getting "i think youre just anxious, you can't actually feel anything" as an answer... I am scared its gonna be like that again. I feel like they lied to me, cause they told me it was the step right before general anesthesia, but it's clearly not. Does autism have something to do with it, is it possible the medication is not suitable for some people? Should it hurt at all?

[@devendarjain7037]

have you spoken to a psychiatrist?

[@ngs5554]

Yes, your genes could absolutely alter how you metabolize different meds.

[@annedymock2850]

I have been told I am a fast metaboliser of local anaesthetic, it never lasts the whole procedure, but I have not had problems or awareness due to general anestheic. I am epileptic and on a few occasions have had a seizure coming out of anaesthesia. It is also common in person with red hair to metabolise some drugs used in general anaesthesia. Their can be differences in pain perception and perception of other senses when you are Autistic. I am autistic with chronic pain issues. I have relatively high pain tolerance, but this may be more a function of the amount of severe pain O have needed to deal with over my life. I feel the pain, but often deal with it without asking for medication. I hate how opiates in particular make me feel, but need to take some for chronic pain or I cannot sleep (still often have difficulty sleeping, but that is really common for people with autism. Being autistic often means you do not present typically. When I am in a lot of pain, I find it difficult to speak and put words together, I find it hard to look people in the eye. I find it difficult to find the words to describe the pain, my thinking in words seems a little impaired. There is a lot of delays answering questions as I try to put the word together in my head. Some people think I am faking, which is compounded by a history of depression. Some doctor's when dealing with a person with mental health issues, assume a cause is psychiatric if the presentation is a little different to usual. As I mentioned I have a pretty high pain tolerance, and when I am asked about the level of pain compared as I have experienced a lot of pain, my estimates tend to be lower than many. I had a kidney stone where I was vomiting so hard I was losing bowel and urine control. When asked about the pain I said about 6.5 to 7 (my normal pain unmedicated is at this level about one third of the time). When asked about the nature of the pain I said I was a very intense pressure, very like when I had a perforated bowel, but with bowel pain movement made it worse, and this pain came in waves, but stayed much the no matter the position or how I moved. I think it is arrogant for a medical to tell you you are not perceiving pain (because they perceive it should be impossible considering the medication administered, or nature of the procedure). Often they treat you as if you are drug seeking. There can be many reasons you can be feeling pain when it is "impossible". I have had problems at the dentist on multiple occasions, which I have recently found out is due to being a fast metaboliser of local anaesthetics. I had bad pain during a root canal after the nerve had already been removed, and was sternly told it was impossible, and even mocked a little. I kept having problems for years after that, but was told I was being dramatic, and could not be in pain because the nerve was no longer there, being meek and mild I put I with quite a lot of pain for years without going back. I was really quite traumatised by the experience. Eventually the tooth fractured, and my jaw and face swelled up. The practice manager saw me, as my usual dentist was on holidays. When he did imaging he saw the problem. The tooth had four roots, she only worked on removing three root. One of the three roots she worked on was incomplete and still had about 5mm remaining. He also told me that the root canal wasn't necessary, because the problem was actually a primordial cyst between two of the roots. That cyst had continued to grow and split the tooth. It also required surgery to remove and a bone transplant to fill in the hole left behind. He apologised profusely, and did the repair work free of charge. Another time I needed my wisdom teeth extracted, which I did under local. Three of them were fine. The top two I felt immediate improvement (they were rubbingbon the back of my throat, and made ulcers there). But one of the lower teeth was very painful, and continued that way for a couple of months. What had happened is one of the needle with the local local missed the nerve and became encapsulated into a tendon. I also developed dry socket so took to heal. There are many other reasons why pain that is "impossible" can happen. The vein where injections go may be leaky or blow snd not circulate medication (usually picked up quickly). If you regularly have opiates (eg for chronic pain or addiction), your body develops tolerance, and usual foses are not effective. I have woken up from abdominal surgery in a lot of pain only, breathing quickly and shallow able to speak one or two words Pain, Nausea. And was told I was faking it, panicking that my O2 stars were fine and had received a lot of pain meds and that others operating on that day weren't complaining. Then I vomited all over her (I had surgery because stomach had been blocked). I had actually present to emergency earlier as I could not eat or drink, or keep down medications, and was getting a severenpain intermittently in the middle if my chest through to my back, and was sent home after IV fluids to rehydrate me. To come back again three days later dehydrated, still not able to keep anything done andbin pain, worried because I voukdn't keep my epilepsy or pain meds down. They wanted to send me home again, but I stood my ground... they fid a CAT scan, saw the blockage, could not even pass a nasogastric tube. Much less likely, it is also possible the pain medication has been tampered with, by a staff member with an addiction problem. Most hospitals have procedures handling dangerous drugs to minimise this risk. In this case a pattern of ineffectivebpsin relief for multiple patients tends to emerge over time If you feel pain, speak up.

[@jackriley5974]

In 1948 I had a tonsillectomy. The anesthesia used was ether, poured over a cloth that was supported by a metal basket placed over my mouth and nose. It worked well, however because they were working in my mouth they had to remove the apparatus to do so. When they caught me waking up the basket went back on. This took place several times and I remember waking up just as they were extracting the last tonsil. It was a little traumatic, but the reward was lots of ice cream!!

[@margaretleboeuf6765]

Excellent presentation. Thank you, you explained things in a clear and concise way.

[@cynthiadeere7599]

Brilliant young man. You can take care of me because you explain everything so well.

[@barbarapratt5314]

Recommended I have an MVD. I have kidney disease stage 3 as well as AFib. I'm 71 and terrified to have anesthesia for 2-3 hours. Just grateful to listen to you and have subscribed.

[@yyl5336]

I want to thank my medical team who was there to care for me during my procedure. I was in for a hysteroscopy and i was so worried about receiving general anaesthesia over regional. The dr was rather patient in addressing my questions, wrries, concerns about the 2 types of anaesthesia and gave me the time to make a firm decision. After clearing my doubts, i couldnt wait anymore and decided to just proceed wf their recommendation.they were laughing at how eager or annoyed i was about myself to start the iv😅 i breathed the oxygen gas wf my eyes closed n didnt know when i went into "deep sleep" state. The next moment, i was in the pacu room waking up, groggly n having some slurring in my speech.😅 looking back, i think it is an achievement unlocked n im glad i left my trust fully to the medical team of angels❤

[@nucleochemist]

I am not in medicine at all but I am a scientist, and recently had a family member in hospital. I found your videos very interesting, professional and factual. Thanks for sharing!