Anaesthesia

Types of Anaesthesia

We want you to feel informed, supported and prepared for your time in hospital. This page explains the different types of anaesthetic and pain relief we offer at the RUH, what to expect before and after your procedure, and where to find further information.

Your anaesthetist will talk with you about the most suitable type of anaesthetic for your operation and your individual health needs. Please feel free to ask questions at any time.

Local Anaesthetic

Local anaesthetic numbs a small area of the body. You stay fully awake and aware. It is commonly used for minor procedures. Your surgeon or anaesthetist will explain if this is suitable for you.

General Anaesthetic

A general anaesthetic makes you fully unconscious (sometimes described as 'being asleep') for your procedure. You will not be aware of the operation and will not feel pain during it.

It is commonly used for:

• Major operations
• Procedures lasting a long time
• Surgery where complete unconsciousness is safest or most comfortable

Both adults and children can be offered a general anaesthetic. We have specially trained paediatric anaesthetists. After a general anaesthetic, you may feel drowsy, have a sore throat, or feel slightly sick. These effects are usually temporary and can be treated.

Regional Anaesthetic (Nerve Blocks / Spinal / Epidural)

Regional anaesthesia numbs a specific part of the body. Many operations are carried out using regional anaesthesia, either on its own or alongside a general anaesthetic or sedation. It is often used for limb surgery, joint replacements and some abdominal procedures. Regional anaesthesia is often used during labour for childbirth (link to obstetric pages).

Benefits can include:

• Excellent pain relief
• Less sickness compared with general anaesthetic
• Faster recovery in some cases.

Regional anaesthesia works by using local anaesthetic medicine to temporarily block sensation in nerves supplying the area of the body being operated on. This may be given as:

• A single injection near the nerves
• Or through a small tube (catheter) that allows pain relief to continue after surgery

Ultrasound guidance is often used to improve accuracy and safety.

If a regional technique may be suitable for your operation:

• Your anaesthetist will discuss the option with you beforehand
• The risks and benefits will be explained clearly
• You will have the opportunity to ask questions and take part in the decision

After your operation

The effects of regional anaesthesia wear off gradually. Before this happens, your team will:

• Ensure you have appropriate pain relief in place
• Give you advice about protecting the numb area
• Explain what is normal and when to seek help

We are closely linked with the Acute Pain Service, ensuring ongoing pain control after surgery

Helpful Resources

You may find the following resources useful:

Further information

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