American Society of Anesthesiologists President John Zerwas, MD, wrote a letter to the editor about intraoperative awareness while under anesthesia that was published in the April issue of The Atlantic.
He wrote that while anesthesia awareness is "extremely rare," it can occur. Patients should speak with anesthesiologists prior to surgery to discuss any past problems with anesthetics and should list all medications they are taking, he wrote.
Dr. Zerwas also brought attention to the $500,000 in grants recently issued by the Foundation for Anesthesia Education and Research to study the use of brain monitors in prevention of awareness, as well as ongoing research by practitioners to find better anesthesia techniques.
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He wrote that while anesthesia awareness is "extremely rare," it can occur. Patients should speak with anesthesiologists prior to surgery to discuss any past problems with anesthetics and should list all medications they are taking, he wrote.
Dr. Zerwas also brought attention to the $500,000 in grants recently issued by the Foundation for Anesthesia Education and Research to study the use of brain monitors in prevention of awareness, as well as ongoing research by practitioners to find better anesthesia techniques.
More Articles on Anesthesia:
Assurance Alar Sensor for Anesthesia Approved by FDA to Market
Anesthesiologist Dr. Brian Brown Treated Boston Marathon Bombing Victims at the Scene
MedWatch Updates 53 Drug Safety Labels