What types of anesthesia are used for surgery?

The American Society of Anesthesiologists names three types of anesthesia, and each is used for a different kind of procedure.

Three types and what each is used for

The society describes them in turn. General anesthesia is used for major operations, such as a knee replacement or open-heart surgery, and causes you to lose consciousness. Regional anesthesia is often used during childbirth and surgeries of the arm, leg, or abdomen. Local anesthesia is for procedures such as getting stitches or having a mole removed.

Which one applies to you

The list shows the spread, from stitches to open-heart surgery, but it does not choose for you. Your surgeon and anesthesia provider decide for your operation, so ask which type is planned and why.

What would change the answer

A type different from the one first described to you is worth a direct question before the day. Write down what the consultation covered so you can spot any difference.

Where the next questions lead

Sedation and infection prevention usually come up after the type is settled. The Cleveland Clinic has an overview of anesthesia, the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia has a page on conscious sedation for surgical procedures, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publishes a surgical site infection basics page.