Anesthesia

You will always be given local anesthesia for your surgery, but you may choose any of the other options listed below as a supplement. Each choice requires different preparation on your part. For your safety, it is important that you read and follow the instructions carefully. If you are unclear about anything, please ask Dr. Burns or one of our team members.

Anesthesia Options

Local Anesthesia is just like what you would receive for dental fillings at your general dentist’s office. You will experience a feeling of numbness and a sensation of pressure during surgery. You will be awake and aware during your surgery, but there will be no discomfort.

Have a light meal a few hours prior to surgery.
For more extensive procedures, you may wish to have someone drive you home.
Plan to rest for a few hours after surgery.

Oral Premedication consists of a prescription medication taken by mouth prior to your appointment to induce a relaxed state before and during your surgery, and is coupled with local anesthesia. It can also be supplemented with any of the other anesthesia options.

Take the medication at the time directed before your surgery.
Have a light meal a few hours prior to surgery, unless you are also planning IV anesthesia.
It is not safe to drive after taking sedative drugs. You must have an adult drive you to and from your procedure.
Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Do not operate power tools, machinery, etc., for 24 hours after surgery.

Nitrous Oxide is also known as “laughing gas”. You will be relaxed and somewhat less aware of your surroundings, but recall most of the surgical event. Nitrous oxide is used in conjunction with local anesthesia, but also may be supplemented by any of the other anesthesia options.

Have a light meal four (4) hours prior to surgery.
For more extensive procedures, you may wish to have someone drive you home.
Plan to rest for a few hours after surgery.

IV Anesthesia is where medications are administered through a vein in your arm or hand, which will cause total relaxation and lack of consciousness, complete lack of recall of the event, and usually a longer recovery time. Local anesthesia will be administered to the surgical site(s) after you are sedated. IV Anesthesia has an excellent safety record as an office procedure, but may, if you desire, be provided in a hospital setting (Please be advised that your insurance company may cover your surgery differently if performed in a hospital setting).

You should wear comfortable, loose clothing. Remove all of your jewelry and nail polish before the appointment. If you wear contact lenses, please remove them and wear your eyeglasses.
You may not have anything to eat or drink (including water) for six (6) to eight (8) hours prior to your surgery. However, it is important that you take any regular medications (high blood pressure, antibiotics, etc.) or any premedication prescription that has been provided, using only a small sip of water. Special direction will be given by Dr. Burns for fasting for pediatric and diabetic patients.
You must have a responsible adult drive you to and from your surgery.
Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Do not drive a vehicle or operate power tools, machinery, etc., for 24 hours after surgery.

Our goal is to provide you with a safe, pleasant and effective anesthesia experience. In order to do this, it is imperative that we have your full cooperation in following pre-anesthesia instructions. Call our office at 317-823-4260 or Toll free: 866-823-4260 if you have any questions regarding these anesthesia options or instructions.