Many procedures do not require general anesthesia.  Sedation, administered by one of our physician anesthesiologists, will be titrated to the ideal level based on a multitude of factors.  We consider not only the type of procedure you are having but also characteristics unique to you such as your weight, age, and baseline tolerance to anesthetic drugs.  Often, in addition to sedation, local anesthetics can be administered to “numb” the area involved in the procedure.  This combination ensures your proceduralist can work as efficiently as possible while you remain safe and comfortable.

Like with general anesthesia, your anesthesiologist will be continuously monitoring your vital signs including breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate throughout the procedure.  When the procedure is over, you will be monitored by a nurse trained in recovering patients from anesthesia until it is safe for you to either go home or be admitted to a hospital room.

Unlike general anesthesia, patients typically recover faster from sedation and experience fewer side effects.  Your anesthesiologist will discuss the options for sedation with you prior to your procedure and together form an individualized plan that works best for you.