Guidelines for General Anaesthesia

Question 1

when must you have written consent

Answer 1

where treatment involves conscious sedation or general anaesthetic

Question 2

what is general anesthesia

Answer 2

state of controlled unconsciousness affecting the whole body, so the patient does not move or feel pain with loss of protected reflexes

Question 3

indications for GA

Answer 3

lengthy or complex surgery
very anxious/ dental phobic patients
profound learning disability
multiple extractions in multiple quadrants
severe trauma or acute dental infection
cases where IV sedation is inappropriate

Question 4

advantages of GA

Answer 4

patient cooperation is not required
patient unaware of the procedure taking place
significant amount of tx can be carried out in attendance

Question 5

disadvantages of GA

Answer 5

pre-operative medical and dental assessment needed
needs careful tx planning - all work to be done in one visit
open consent often needed as cannot change tx half way through
does not help the patient get over their fear
cost
pre-op fasting and after care require
morbidity and mortality risk