Ten Things Patients Should Know
- It is rare. Less than one in 1,000 surgeries and decreasing. When it does occur, it is often fleeting and not traumatic.
- Those experiencing awareness usually don't feel pain. Some may feel pressure.
- Awareness can range from brief, hazy recall to specific awareness. Dreams or perception of surroundings does not necessarily represent awareness.
- Awareness can occur in high-risk surgeries in which the patient's condition may not allow for a deep anesthetic.
- Early counseling after awareness can lessen feelings of confusion or trauma.
- Anesthesiologists are actively studying the most effective ways to prevent it.
- Research has dramatically improved safety and comfort the last 20 years.
- New brain-wave monitoring devices being tested may reduce awareness.
- A highly trained anesthesia professional should be involved in your surgery.
- Patients should raise concerns with their anesthesia professional before surgery.