Can I have pain even after anesthesia?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have to undergo surgery for an ACL tear. However, I am worried that I might wake up mid-surgery and experience pain. Previously I had a wisdom tooth extraction and the local anesthesia was ineffective and the tooth was extracted while I was in pain. I am anxious about my surgery. Give me some suggestions.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I hope you are doing well.

Regarding your query, ACL tear surgery is performed under the sub-arachnoid block (commonly known as spinal anesthesia), in which the drug will be injected through a very fine needle into your spinal fluid at the level of lower lumbar vertebrae. You will not have any sensation below your waist. This technique is absolutely pain-free.

The effect of anesthesia will be there even after the surgery for a few hours. So be assured that there will be absolutely no pain during surgery. Meet your anesthesiologist prior to surgery which will reduce your anxiety further.

I hope this will help you.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The anesthesia will work for sure, and the chances of failure are far less.

Even if it fails, you will be given general anesthesia, because the surgery requires immobilization of your knee. So the anesthetist will make sure that the anesthesia is fully effective. You do not have to be worried about it.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Your worries are absolutely right, and it can happen sometimes. You have to believe that your anesthetist will provide his best care to you and keep you pain-free during the procedure. Awareness during anesthesia is very rare nowadays. All thanks to newer drugs and sophisticated techniques.

Do not worry and discuss with your anesthetist. You will be fine.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.

Answer 4

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

These two surgeries are far different. You were given local anesthesia at that time, and sometimes it does not work. It does not mean you are prone to this. There is no need for any special precautions. Usually, dental surgeons give anesthesia on their own.

In your planned surgery, an anesthesiologist will be there. He will monitor you, and if you feel pain, he can supplement with other methods too. There is really no need to worry.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.