If you would normally take medications during the fasting period, continue to take them at the normal times with a sip of water. Certain medications may not be taken before the operation and your surgeon will further advise you. If you are taking medication for diabetes please consult your surgeon.
Anaesthetic drugs may impair your judgement. 24 hours following your procedure do not undertake the following activities:
You should be aware that Medicare and Health Fund rebates generally do not cover the entire cost of your anaesthesia. There will usually be a gap that you will be expected to pay. If you have any questions about the cost, please talk with your anaesthetist.
Many minor and some major complications are possible with anaesthesia. Serious health problems (eg a recent heart attack) may add extra risk. Please discuss any concerns with your Anaesthetist before surgery.
These may include nausea and vomiting, headache, dizziness and pain. Please alert a nurse in recovery if you are feeling any of these common side-effects.
These include temporary breathing problems, muscle pains, asthma reactions, temporary nerve damage, awareness during the operation, damage to teeth or dental prosthesis, hoarseness or difficulty speaking, lip or tongue injury and epileptic seizures.
These include allergic reactions to anaesthetic drugs, unusual responses to drugs, lasting damage to nerves or the spinal cord, stroke, brain damage, heart problems, kidney failure, liver failure, lung damage, pulmonary emboli, pneumonia and death in otherwise healthy people.
Anaesthesia during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage.
When considering risks, it is important to keep things in perspective and bear in mind the major complications are rare.