DEPARTMENTS

We provide comprehensive anesthesia services for patients of all ages, using advanced monitoring techniques and evidence-based practices to deliver the highest standard of care. From your pre-operative evaluation through your recovery, our goal is to keep you comfortable while ensuring the safest possible surgical experience.

Expert Anesthesia Care You Can Trust

Every surgical procedure is unique, and so is every patient. Factors such as your age, medical history, medications, allergies, and the type of procedure you are having all influence the anesthesia approach recommended for you.

Our anesthesia providers carefully review your health history and discuss your options prior to your procedure. We take the time to answer your questions, address concerns, and help you feel confident and prepared for surgery.

When you choose Great Falls Clinic, you can trust that your anesthesia care will be coordinated seamlessly with your surgeon and the rest of your healthcare team.

What to Expect Before Anesthesia

Pre-Procedure Evaluation

Before your surgery or procedure, an anesthesia provider will review important information about your health, including:

• Medical conditions and past surgeries
• Current medications and supplements
• Allergies or previous reactions to anesthesia
• Family history of anesthesia-related complications
• Tobacco, alcohol, or recreational drug use

This evaluation helps us determine the safest and most effective anesthesia plan for your procedure.

Preparing for Surgery

You may receive instructions regarding:

• When to stop eating or drinking before surgery
• Which medications to take or temporarily discontinue
• Transportation arrangements following your procedure
• Recovery expectations and post-operative care

Following these instructions carefully helps reduce risks and ensures the best possible outcome.

Types of Anesthesia

Depending on your procedure and medical needs, your anesthesia provider may recommend one of the following options:

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia numbs a small area of the body where a procedure will be performed. You remain awake and alert while pain sensation is blocked in the treatment area.

Common uses include:

• Minor surgical procedures
• Skin lesion removal
• Biopsies
• Wound repair

IV Sedation (Monitored Anesthesia Care)

IV sedation uses medications delivered through a vein to help you relax and remain comfortable during a procedure. Depending on the level of sedation needed, you may feel sleepy and have little or no memory of the procedure afterward.

Common uses include:

• Endoscopic procedures
• Certain outpatient surgeries
• Diagnostic procedures

Regional Anesthesia

Regional anesthesia blocks pain in a larger area of the body, such as an arm, leg, or lower half of the body. This technique allows many procedures to be performed while avoiding general anesthesia.

Examples include:

• Nerve blocks
• Spinal anesthesia
• Epidural anesthesia

Regional anesthesia is often used for orthopedic procedures, childbirth, and pain management following surgery.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia places you into a controlled state of unconsciousness during surgery. You will not feel pain, be aware of the procedure, or remember the operation afterward.

General anesthesia may be recommended for:

• Major surgeries
• Complex procedures
• Operations requiring complete muscle relaxation
• Procedures lasting an extended period of time

Throughout surgery, your vital signs, breathing, heart function, and comfort are continuously monitored by your anesthesia team.

Your Safety Is Our Priority

Patient safety is at the center of everything we do. During your procedure, advanced monitoring technology allows our anesthesia team to closely track:

• Heart rate and rhythm
• Blood pressure
• Oxygen levels
• Breathing function
• Body temperature

Our anesthesia professionals remain focused on your care throughout the entire procedure, making adjustments as needed to keep you safe and comfortable.

Recovery After Anesthesia

Following your procedure, you will be cared for in a recovery area where our team monitors your progress as the effects of anesthesia wear off.

Depending on the type of anesthesia used, you may experience:

• Drowsiness
• Mild sore throat
• Temporary nausea
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue

These effects are generally short-lived and improve as you recover. Before you are discharged, we will provide instructions regarding medications, activity restrictions, pain management, and follow-up care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I meet my anesthesia provider before surgery?

Yes. Prior to your procedure, an anesthesia provider will review your medical history, discuss the anesthesia plan, and answer any questions you may have.

Is anesthesia safe?

Modern anesthesia is extremely safe for most patients. Our providers conduct thorough evaluations and continuously monitor you throughout your procedure to minimize risks and promote the safest possible outcome.

Will I feel pain during surgery?

Your anesthesia plan is specifically designed to prevent or manage pain during your procedure. The type of anesthesia used depends on your surgery and individual needs.

How long does it take for anesthesia to wear off?

Recovery times vary based on the type of anesthesia used, your overall health, and the procedure performed. Many patients are able to return home the same day, while others may require a longer recovery period.

Coordinated Surgical Care

Anesthesia is an important part of your surgical journey, but it is only one piece of a larger, coordinated care team. Our anesthesia providers work closely with surgeons, nurses, and recovery specialists to ensure a seamless experience from preparation through recovery.

Whether you’re scheduled for a routine outpatient procedure or a complex surgery, you can depend on the Great Falls Clinic team to provide compassionate, personalized care every step of the way.

If you have questions about anesthesia before your procedure, please contact your surgeon’s office or speak with your anesthesia provider during your pre-operative evaluation.