Anaesthesiology

Pre-operative care

Prior to surgery we seek to understand each patients' healthcare status, including optimising chronic medical conditions and identifying areas requiring special attention. This encompasses drug allergies, previous anaesthetic experiences, a review of medication, and an assessment of general fitness.

Based on this information, an anaesthetic plan will be formed and discussed with the patient. Detailed counselling on the anaesthetic process, and any risks involved, is carried out during a pre-operative clinic visit.

A plan is also made for post-operative pain management, and care in special units like the high-dependency or intensive care, if needed.

Anaesthesia

During the surgery, our team will be in attendance throughout the procedure. We provide anaesthesia to enable the surgery, while minimising discomfort to the patient and ensuring their safety.

This can be achieved with one, or a combination, of the following:

• General anaesthesia: This is a state of unconsciousness with the patient retaining no memory of the surgery.
• Regional anaesthesia: This form of anaesthesia numbs the specific area of the body being operated on, such as the arm or leg. Sedation can concurrently be administered to increase the patient's comfort.
• Local anaesthesia: This type of anaesthesia numbs a small area of the body, such as the surface of the eye, or a patch of skin.

Acute pain management

After surgery, our goal is to manage pain and help patients recover as quickly as possible. This is achieved through options including:

• Oral medication
• Patient controlled analgesia: The use of a specially programmed machine allows patients to control and receive pain medication when it is needed.
• Regional anaesthesia: A continuous infusion of medication to keep the surgical site numb after the surgery and in the ward.

Chronic pain management

For patients with chronic pain, our team can help to develop a personalized pain management plan. Some options include:

• Oral medications
• Physical therapy: this can help to reduce pain and improve function.
• Injections around nerves, where appropriate

We are committed to providing high quality, patient centric and value-based care.

• General/Regional Anaesthesia brochure (PDF, 273 KB)

Phone: 6472 2000

Opening Hours: 8.30 am - 5.30 pm (Mondays to Fridays)

Location: Zone C, C03-01, Level 3, Surgery Centre