You may be asked to come into hospital one or two days before the operation is due to take place. This means you can get used to the ward, meet the staff caring for you, have any tests which are needed or receive any special preparation. You may also be asked to attend a pre-assessment clinic (or pre-admission clinic) where tests can be done before your admission. You can use this visit to ask any questions or talk about any concerns you may have.
The doctor will ask you to sign a consent form, which is a written record that you have agreed to the planned operation. Before you can give your consent, your doctor will discuss with you what the operation is likely to involve, the benefits and risks, the type of anaesthetic and any available alternative treatments. You may also be given some written information to back up what you’ve been told. It is important that you understand the information you have been given – ask questions if you don’t understand or if you want more information. Your doctor will write the main benefits and risks associated with the operation on the consent form before you sign it. You will then be given a copy of the page with the details of the operation.
The anaesthetic
An anaesthetic is given so that you do not feel any pain or other sensations during surgery. There are different types of anaesthetic and they do not always make you unconscious, the anaesthetist will advise which one is best for you.
A local anaesthetic uses a drug that numbs a small part of your body. It is usually injected and will sting for a few seconds at first. You stay conscious but free from pain.
A regional anaesthetic uses an injection of local anaesthetic to numb a larger or deeper part of your body, for example an arm or a leg. The most common regional anaesthetics (also known as regional ‘blocks’) are spinal and epidural anaesthetics. They involve injections in the back to remove feeling from the waist down. You stay conscious but free from pain. Epidurals may be used during and/or after surgery for pain relief.
A general anaesthetic gives a state of controlled unconsciousness. It is essential for many operations. You are unconscious and feel nothing.
Your anaesthetist will meet you before your operation to assess your health and which anaesthetic you should have. Nothing will happen to you until you understand and agree with what has been planned for you. You have the right to refuse if you do not want the treatment suggested.