During general anaesthesia, the protective reflexes (for example, the swallowing and coughing reflex) are switched off along with consciousness and the sensation of pain. There is a risk of stomach contents getting into the lungs via the throat (so-called “aspiration”). This complication can lead to life-threatening damage to the lungs.

The depth of anaesthesia is constantly monitored during general anaesthesia. We continuously record the smallest changes (blood pressure values, pulse, etc.) and they help us to continually adjust the optimal administration of medication. If you still have concerns, let us know – we will take you seriously!

Pain after a procedure cannot be fully ruled out in every case. Generally, you will undergo a combined pain therapy procedure. That means administering a local anaesthetic to the area of the procedure and administering painkillers via a vein. In the recovery room, you will be asked about your current pain level and treated accordingly.

The most modern medications cause nausea much less often than in the past. Nevertheless, there is still a basic risk of nausea today. The frequency of occurrence depends on the person’s disposition and the procedure that has been performed. If the disposition is known, prophylaxis can be carried out.

After minor procedures, you will usually be able to drink something in the recovery room – and if you tolerate it well, you can also eat.

Just a few minutes after the end of the procedure, you will be able to breathe sufficiently on your own again and we will be able to communicate with you. You will be moved on a stretcher from the operating area to the recovery room, where you will continue to be monitored until the anaesthetic has completely worn off and you feel absolutely well again.

The length of monitoring required in the recovery room depends on the procedure and the duration of the procedure. When you feel fit and are again in the same condition as before the treatment, you can be discharged.

In the period after an anaesthetic, there should be someone nearby who can give you help if you need it. You are also not permitted to drive for 24 hours after an anaesthetic. An important task of the person accompanying you is also to ensure compliance with the driving ban.

In principle, the same rules apply in hospitals and practices when performing surgical procedures and anaesthesia. All attending professionals are medical specialists with many years of experience and nurses with additional training in anaesthesia. There are also clear specifications for the technical and hygienic conditions that we have to comply with in performing outpatient anaesthesia!