anesthetize

Anesthetize means to render a patient insensible to pain and sometimes unconscious for medical procedures, achieved by anesthesia. The goal is analgesia, amnesia, and immobility to allow procedures with minimal distress. Use may be local, regional, or general, depending on procedure.

General anesthesia induces unconsciousness, analgesia, amnesia, and real muscle relaxation; routes include inhaled volatile agents and intravenous agents, with airway control. Regional anesthesia blocks sensation to a region (nerve blocks, neuraxial like spinal/epidural). Local anesthesia numbs a small area (injection at site). Sedation and monitored anesthesia care provide varying depths of consciousness.

Common anesthetic agents: inhaled agents such as sevoflurane, isoflurane; IV agents such as propofol, etomidate, ketamine; adjuncts like opioids (fentanyl) and benzodiazepines; local anesthetics like lidocaine, bupivacaine; neuromuscular blockers for muscle relaxation. The choice depends on procedure, patient factors, and desired depth.

Safety: requires continuous monitoring of airway, breathing, circulation; potential risks include respiratory depression, hypotension, allergic reactions, nausea, postoperative delirium, malignant hyperthermia in susceptible individuals. Preparedness includes airway management and resuscitation equipment. Training: anesthesiologists, nurse anesthetists, or anesthesiologist assistants in many systems.

History and etymology: The term derives from Greek an-, without, and aisthēsis, sensation. Modern anesthesia emerged in the 19th century with ether and chloroform; safety and monitoring have improved with technology.