Recommended anesthesiologists

Anesthesiologists: what they do and when to seek help

Anesthesiology is an essential specialty for the success of surgical procedures and effective pain management. Anesthesiologists are highly trained physicians, responsible for ensuring the comfort, safety, and well-being of patients in all phases of the surgical process, from preparation to post-operative recovery.

When to seek an anesthesiologist

Contact with an anesthesiologist usually occurs when you need to undergo surgery or a procedure that requires some type of anesthesia. Most of the time, the surgeon or doctor responsible for your case will refer you for a pre-anesthetic evaluation, when necessary.

It's important to understand that this evaluation is not just a formality, but a fundamental step to ensure your safety. During the consultation, the anesthesiologist will conduct a detailed analysis of your medical history, including pre-existing health conditions, medications in use, and any previous experiences with anesthesia. Based on this assessment, they will develop a personalized plan that will meet your specific needs, minimizing risks and ensuring a safer surgical experience.

Signs that you need anesthetic attention

There are specific situations where consultation with an anesthesiologist becomes especially important. If you have pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, liver, or kidney problems, a detailed anesthetic evaluation is essential to minimize risks during procedures.

Patients with known drug allergies, history of complications in previous anesthesia, sleep apnea, or advanced age also need special attention. Pregnant women scheduled for cesarean section or other surgical procedures equally require specific anesthetic care to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Anesthetic approaches and techniques used

Anesthesiologists master various techniques and approaches to provide the most appropriate type of anesthesia for each patient and procedure. The choice of technique takes into account several factors, including the type of surgery, the patient's clinical condition, and their preferences when possible.

Main types of anesthesia

General anesthesia is indicated for more complex or invasive procedures, inducing a reversible state of unconsciousness, analgesia, amnesia, and muscle relaxation. It is administered through intravenous medications, inhaled gases, or both, and requires intensive monitoring of vital functions.

Regional anesthesia blocks sensation in a specific area of the body without affecting the level of consciousness. Epidural and spinal blocks are examples of this modality. Local anesthesia is used for minor procedures, affecting only a small part of the body. Conscious sedation keeps the patient relaxed but conscious during the procedure.

The role of the anesthesiologist during surgery

The anesthesiologist has a vital function during surgery, which goes far beyond administering medications to induce unconsciousness. They are responsible for constantly monitoring the patient's vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygenation, and body temperature, ensuring that all these parameters remain within safe limits throughout the procedure.

Additionally, the anesthesiologist manages the patient's airway, adjusts the depth of anesthesia, and controls pain during surgery. In emergency situations, such as allergic reactions or respiratory complications, the anesthesiologist is prepared to act immediately and effectively, making quick decisions that are essential for the safety and success of the procedure.

Training and specialization of the anesthesiologist

The training of an anesthesiologist includes completing medical school (approximately 6 years) followed by a medical residency in anesthesiology for 3 years. During this period, the professional develops the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary for performing anesthetic procedures.

In addition to residency, many anesthesiologists specialize in areas such as cardiothoracic, pediatric, obstetric anesthesia, or intensive care medicine. Continuing education is also essential to stay updated with advances in the field and ensure the best practice in patient care.

Anesthesia and post-operative pain management

Post-operative pain management is one of the main roles of anesthesiologists, essential for patient comfort and recovery. Controlling pain effectively not only improves the experience during recovery but also accelerates the recovery process and decreases the chances of complications.

Anesthesiologists adopt a multimodal approach to pain control, combining different medications and techniques to provide effective relief and minimize side effects. This may include opioid analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and local anesthetics. Additionally, advanced techniques such as patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), continuous nerve blocks, and neuroaxial analgesia (such as continuous epidural) are used to ensure lasting relief, adjusting as pain evolves during the recovery period.

Myths and truths about anesthesia

There are many myths about anesthesia that cause unnecessary anxiety in patients. Intraoperative awareness, for example, is extremely rare due to modern monitoring methods. The idea that anesthesia is dangerous for the elderly or people with comorbidities is also mistaken, as detailed pre-anesthetic evaluation ensures safety, even in patients with complex conditions.

Another common myth is the relationship between spinal anesthesia and chronic back problems, which is not confirmed by scientific studies. The fear of not waking up after general anesthesia is also unfounded, as modern monitoring systems and medications with predictable pharmacological profiles make general anesthesia extremely safe, with minimal rates of serious complications.

Preparation for surgery with anesthesia

Proper preparation for a procedure involving anesthesia can significantly contribute to a positive outcome and a smoother recovery. Correctly following the anesthesiologist's guidelines is fundamental to minimize risks and complications.

Important pre-anesthetic guidelines

Pre-operative fasting must be strictly followed to avoid the risk of pulmonary aspiration during anesthetic induction. Generally, fasting from solid foods for 8 hours and clear liquids for 2 hours is recommended.

Some medications for continuous use should be maintained until the day of surgery, while others need to be temporarily suspended. Alcohol and tobacco consumption should be avoided days before the procedure. Accurately informing about drug allergies, previous experiences with anesthesia, and pre-existing medical conditions is crucial for safe anesthetic planning.

Post-anesthetic recovery

After surgery, the patient is transferred to the Post-Anesthetic Recovery Room (PACU), where they are closely monitored for vital signs, level of consciousness, and pain control. During this phase, the patient may experience residual effects of anesthesia, such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or chills, which are monitored and treated as needed.

The length of stay in the PACU depends on the type of surgery performed, the anesthetic technique used, and the patient's clinical condition. Discharge from the PACU occurs when the patient is fully conscious, with stable vital signs, controlled pain, and the ability to move adequately. For outpatient procedures, the patient receives detailed guidance on post-operative care and the recovery period at home.

Anesthesia in special populations

Anesthesia in special populations, such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women, requires differentiated care due to their unique physiological characteristics.

Anesthesia in children

Pediatric anesthesia demands adjustments in medications and equipment used, with dosages based on the child's weight. The presence of parents during anesthetic induction is commonly allowed, providing emotional comfort and helping to reduce the child's anxiety.

Anesthesia in the elderly

In the elderly, physiological changes require adjustments in anesthetic dosages, as well as more intensive monitoring. Common comorbidities in this age group increase the challenges and risk of complications. Post-anesthesia recovery is slower, with a higher likelihood of delirium and cognitive dysfunction.

Anesthesia in pregnant women

In pregnant women, spinal anesthesia is preferred for cesarean sections, while epidural analgesia is common during vaginal deliveries. In obstetric emergencies, the anesthesiologist needs to be prepared to act quickly, ensuring the safety of both mother and baby during the process.

Risks and complications of anesthesia

Although modern anesthesia is safe, complications such as nausea, post-intubation sore throat, and allergic reactions can occur. Serious neurological complications are rare, and anesthesia-related mortality is estimated at 1 for every 200,000 procedures, reflecting the high safety of current processes.

Innovations and advances in anesthesiology

Anesthesiology constantly incorporates new technologies and knowledge to improve the safety and effectiveness of procedures. Monitoring systems have evolved significantly, with devices that allow real-time monitoring of anesthetic depth and neuromuscular relaxation.

New medications with more predictable pharmacokinetic profiles provide faster recovery and lower incidence of side effects. Ultrasound-guided techniques have revolutionized regional anesthesia, reducing risks of complications. Artificial intelligence is beginning to be incorporated into anesthetic practice, and high-fidelity simulation has become essential in the training of anesthesiologists.

Why choose AvaliaMed to consult an anesthesiologist?

Finding the right professional to take care of your anesthesia is essential to ensure safety and peace of mind during medical procedures. AvaliaMed offers a reliable platform with a rigorous credentialing process, ensuring that all registered anesthesiologists have complete training and recognized specialist titles.

Our platform presents doctor evaluations of anesthesiologists, detailed profiles of professionals, including subspecialization areas, and an intuitive scheduling system. AvaliaMed anesthesiologists are also selected for their ability to communicate clearly and accessibly, answering questions and alleviating anxieties related to anesthesia. For a detailed pre-anesthetic evaluation, AvaliaMed is the ideal choice.