Re: Re: Afraid of anesthesia for surgery

[Guest guest]

Back in February of 1995 when my surgeon made the decision to perform my L3-L5

Anatomical Spinal Fusion I had but one fear, the anesthesia.

I had/have the utmost respect and trust in my surgeon (he's since completed two

Synthes Pro Disc (Lumbar and Cervical) ADR's) but I had a major aversion to

anesthesia.

My concern was always having someone in complete control of my heart and lungs.

Unfortunately my concern was heightened because of what was happening in

California hospitals at the same time as my surgery, thankfully I am in NY.

For those who don't remember, anesthesiologists who were on staff at a few

hospitals at the same time were performing their duties at the same time at

different hospitals, stepping away once the patients were under and leaving it

up to the surgical nurses to monitor the patients. Unfortunately patients died.

So my first surgery of any kind was a frightful concept and my surgery was also

being conducted at a teaching hospital. When the anesthesiologist introduced

himself to me while I was in pre-op then introduced the med student my exact

words to him, to both, " Doctor, it is a pleasure to meet you. " and when asked if

I had any questions after introducing me to the med student I emphatically

stated, " I have only one concern that you are not performing any surgeries other

than mine, and that you, Dr., keep your a$$ on the chair beside me and not

leave, and (to the student) You keep your hands off me but Good Luck with your

medical career. "

I realize I sounded well...ya know..but I was scared out of my mind and didn't

need the added stress that someone would leave in the middle of my surgery

because they needed to pay for their $100k car.

I did have serious issues with the demoral or morphine they gave me, turns out I

am extremely sensitive, bordering on allergic, so the first day after my surgery

I saw that anesthesiologist several times, I'm sure he was thankful I was

unconscious most of the time.

Andria

> Cheryl wrote:

> Has anyone else had to deal with this type of thing? What did you do?

[Guest guest]

I'm sure you will be fine. I just had major shoulder and wrist surgery and neck

surgery. I know it is worrisome but just let your anesthetist know you take what

you do. They will make sure your safe and not in too much pain. Sending good

luck prayers your way.

j

> Cheryl wrote:

> Thank you everyone who wrote to me about my surgery.