your anaestheticoptions

Your anaesthetist will talk to you about your anaesthesia and pain relief after surgery.

Your anaesthetist is responsible for pre-medication before your surgery, your anaesthesia and wellbeing during surgery and your post-operative pain relief.

Ask your surgeon if you can meet with your anaesthetist before the day of your procedure. This way you won’t be hurried or stressed, and can be involved in the planning.

Pre-medication

Your anaesthetist may offer you medication before your surgery. This could be to prevent nausea, reduce stomach acid or help you relax. If you think you’ll be feeling anxious before surgery, ask if you can have something to relax you.

Anaesthesia

For gallbladder removal, you’ll have a general anaesthetic.

You’ll be unconscious for your procedure and a tube put into your throat to help you breathe. You may wake up with a sore throat from the tube. General anaesthetics may cause post-operative nausea and vomiting.

If you’re overweight or obese, there are increased risks associated with general anaesthesia.

Pain relief after surgery

After surgery you’ll be given pain relief prescribed by your anaesthetist. By enabling you to move and breathe without too much discomfort, good pain relief can help reduce your risk of complications.

Injections, tablets or liquids can be given at regular times, or when pain starts to bother you.

Print this page to take when you meet with your surgeon and anaesthetist, so you can make sure all your questions are answered.