Anaesthestics

The anaesthetics service is led by doctors who are specially trained in anaesthetics and the treatment of pain. They provide pain relief before, during and after surgical procedures and are closely involved in all aspects of resuscitation of very ill and severely injured patients.

Anaesthesia means “loss of sensation.” Anaesthetics are drugs used during tests and surgical operations to numb sensation in certain areas of the body or induce sleep. This prevents pain and discomfort and enables a wide range of medical procedures to be carried out.

Local anaesthetics and general anaesthetics are two commonly used types of anaesthetics. A local anaesthetic is often used during procedures where a small area of the body is numbed and you remain fully conscious. A general anaesthetic is often used for more serious operations where you are unconscious and unaware of the procedure.