Anesthesia

IV Sedation, or general anesthesia, uses medications to allow the patient to go to sleep while undergoing surgical procedures in an operating room setting. In certain circumstances, the surgeon may recommend being treated by our board certified anesthesiologists. This will be discussed during your consultation. Patients with high levels of anxiety or special needs may also benefit from a general anesthetic in an operating room setting. Our doctors can discuss the risks and benefits of general anesthesia to help patients know if it is a good choice for them.

Nitrous Oxide, sometimes referred to as “laughing gas,” is an effective and safe sedation agent that is inhaled through a mask that fits over the nose to help patients relax. Mixed with oxygen, nitrous oxide allows the patient to breathe normally through the nose. The effects of the sedation will be felt within just a few minutes and may be experienced as a light-headed feeling or a tingling or heaviness in the arms and legs. Ultimately, patients should feel comfortable and calm. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly after the small mask is removed. Talk to the doctor about whether nitrous oxide would be a good option for you.