What do anesthesiologists check before surgery to prevent risks?

Before your surgery, anesthesiologists perform a comprehensive pre-operative assessment to identify and minimize potential risks associated with anesthesia. This evaluation is crucial for tailoring the anesthesia plan to your specific needs and ensuring your safety throughout the procedure. More information about this pre-operative assessment can be found here.

How is my anesthesia dose going to be tailored to my specific needs?

Your anesthesia dose isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, it’s carefully customized to meet your body’s unique needs. Factors like your age, weight, medical conditions, and even your type of surgery all play a role in determining the right dose for you. For example, if you’re elderly or have a lower body weight, the anesthesiologist will likely use a smaller dose to ensure the anesthesia doesn’t overwhelm your system. Conversely, patients with larger body mass or those undergoing more invasive procedures may require higher doses to maintain the right level of sedation or pain control.

The anesthesiologist also takes into account your metabolic rate and how well your liver and kidneys function, as these organs process and clear anesthesia drugs from your body. If you have any conditions that affect these organs, like liver disease or kidney dysfunction, the dosage will be adjusted accordingly to prevent any buildup of the drugs in your system, which could lead to complications.