Anaesthesia: A Very Short Introduction | Very Short Introductions

Anaesthesia is a fascinating and rapidly developing field of medicine. This Very Short provides an up-to-date and accessible overview of the science behind anaesthesia, its history, and its use in modern surgery and critical care.

Anaesthesia: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions)

by Aidan O'Donnell

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3647 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	161 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	96 pages
Item Weight	:	10.6 ounces
Hardcover	:	208 pages
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.38 x 9.21 inches

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The Science of Anaesthesia

Anaesthesia works by blocking the transmission of pain signals from the nerves to the brain. This can be achieved in a number of ways, including:

• Inhalation anaesthesia: This involves breathing in a gas or vapour that causes unconsciousness.
• Intravenous anaesthesia: This involves injecting a drug into a vein that causes unconsciousness.
• Regional anaesthesia: This involves injecting a drug around a nerve or group of nerves to block pain signals from a specific part of the body.
• Topical anaesthesia: This involves applying a cream or gel to the skin to numb a small area.

The type of anaesthesia used will depend on the type of surgery or procedure being performed, as well as the patient's individual needs.

The History of Anaesthesia

The history of anaesthesia can be traced back to ancient times. The earliest known use of anaesthesia was in China in the 2nd century BC, when acupuncture was used to relieve pain during surgery.

In the 18th century, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) was discovered and used for pain relief during childbirth. In the 19th century, ether and chloroform were introduced as general anaesthetics.

The development of modern anaesthesia began in the early 20th century with the of intravenous barbiturates. These drugs were safer and more effective than previous anaesthetics, and they allowed for longer and more complex surgeries to be performed.

Anaesthesia Today

Today, anaesthesia is an essential part of modern surgery and critical care. It allows patients to undergo surgery without pain, and it helps to prevent complications such as infection and blood loss.

Anaesthesia is a complex and challenging field of medicine, but it is also a rewarding one. Anaesthetists play a vital role in the care of patients, and they help to make surgery and critical care safer and more comfortable.

Anaesthesia is a fascinating and rapidly developing field of medicine. This Very Short has provided a brief overview of the science behind anaesthesia, its history, and its use in modern surgery and critical care.

If you are interested in learning more about anaesthesia, I encourage you to explore the resources listed below.

• American Society of Anesthesiologists
• Royal College of Anaesthetists
• Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists

Thank you for reading.

Author: Dr. John Smith

Date: March 2023

Anaesthesia: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions)

by Aidan O'Donnell

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3647 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	161 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	96 pages
Item Weight	:	10.6 ounces
Hardcover	:	208 pages
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.38 x 9.21 inches

FREE