Anesthesia FAQ
Who will give my anesthesia?
Board Certified Anesthesiologists and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists with Atlantic Anesthesia, Inc. provide anesthesia services at Virginia Beach Ambulatory Surgery Center.
What are the different kinds of anesthesia?
We offer four different categories of anesthesia:
- General anesthesia-the patient is given anesthetic medication that results in loss of consciousness and no sensation.
- Regional anesthesia –anesthetic medication is injected to provide numbness to the region of the body where surgery is to be performed. Often additional medications are given which will make you drowsy and will help make you comfortable. Regional “blocks” lead to decreased pain post operatively.
- Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) - sedation and local anesthesia
- Local anesthesia- anesthetic medication is injected to the surgical area to provide localized numbness and loss of sensation.
Do I have a choice in what kind of anesthesia I will receive?
Depending on the surgery you will be having, you may be able to choose what type of anesthesia you will be given. Your anesthesiologist or surgeon will discuss your options before you go to surgery.
Why do I have to stop eating and drinking before my surgery?
You do no eat nor drink prior to surgery in order to empty your stomach to limit the risk of stomach contents getting into your lungs during your surgery. This complication is very serious and we require patients to strictly abide by this rule. You will be given very clear instruction from the pre-op nurse as to what time you must stop eating and drinking. If you have eaten or had something to drink before surgery, your procedure may very likely be cancelled.
May I drive home after my surgery?
Patients who receive anesthesia should not drive a car until the day after surgery. Anyone who receives sedation must have a ride home. Occasionally, patients who have only local anesthesia may be allowed by their surgeon to drive home. This must be determined by the surgeon prior to discharge.
Will I get a bill for anesthesia services?
You will be billed separately for anesthesia services, as well as from your other physicians. As a courtesy, AAI will bill your insurance company directly if you have health insurance. If you have any financial questions about your anesthesia services please contact Atlantic Anesthesia Inc. at 757-472-0044.
