The hottest anaesthetic news yet

Conscious sedation – a controlled state of depressed consciousness, during which the patient still has control over the protective reflexes and breathing, and can react to physical touch and verbal instructions – is fast becoming a popular anaesthetic method.

Thousands of patients who fear surgical procedures or those who simply want to save time and money are opting to have surgery done while under conscious sedation.

Take action:

Considering getting a procedure done under conscious sedation?

Discuss the possibility with your doctor, dentist or specialist – he/she would be able to point you in the right direction; contact your medical scheme beforehand to check if they will cover it – most local schemes are keen to do it; eliminate eating and drinking for several hours before the procedure; follow your doctor's instructions as to pre- and postoperative care.