Knee Surgery

[Hilts]

I have had an on going knee problem since early summer which I am finally due to have diagnosed this week. If it requires keyhole surgery will I be able to have it done under local anaesthetic or will they have to put me out.

[Philtaz]

If it's keyhole(the correct term for such surgery on joints is arthroscopic) then I doubt very much it will be done under local anaesthetic(I've never seen it in 12 years of working in the theatre). If you have any genuine reservations, fears or other factors such as respiratory problems you could push the anaesthetist for a spinal anaesthetic which will result in you losing the sensation to feel pain or anything else below your waist. This usually lasts for roughly 4 hours. This however will probably require you to stay in overnight, where a short GA(general anaesthetic) would paradoxically see you home the same day! Hope this helps you a little.

[Hilts]

Many Thanks. If it comes to it I'll have the anaesthetic. I dunno why I have reservations. I've never had generalanaesthetic before, so probably a fear of the unknown.

[Philtaz]

You're welcome, I'm sure you'll be fine.

[SteveD]

Don't worry about the general anaesthetic. I had my knee done with a GA and I experienced a very pleasant, warm sensation as I drifted off. I woke up back in the bed. I, too, worked in operating theatres for donkey's years and a general anaesthetic these days is nothing to fear.