The anaesthetist is responsible for your pre-medication, anaesthesia and wellbeing during surgery, any blood transfusions you may need and pain relief after surgery.
General anaesthesia is normally used for kidney stone surgery, although sedation may be used for shock wave lithotripsy.
If you’re having general anaesthetic, ask your surgeon if you can meet with the anaesthetist before the day of the procedure. This way you won’t be hurried or stressed and can be involved in the planning.
Sedation
Sedation will make you feel sleepy and relaxed. It reduces your awareness of the surgery and any discomfort. The anaesthetist will normally give you sedation into a vein.
Pre-medication
The anaesthetist may offer you medication before the 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.
General anaesthetic
With a general anaesthetic, you’ll be unconscious for your procedure and a tube will be inserted 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. Inform your anaesthetist if this has happened to you in the past as there are ways to help prevent it. You may also get a local anaesthetic into your wound.
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.
Pills, 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.
important information
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.