What type of anesthesia is used?
Dr. Colgrove performs all invasive procedures with patients under general anesthesia. General anesthesia is very safe. The doctor can work quickly and precisely because the patient lies completely still. Local anesthesia and I.V. sedation allow the patient to stay awake during the procedure. However, the medications used in local anesthesia and I.V. sedation cause more hangover effects than the inhalation agents used in general anesthesia. Contrary to public opinion, the inhalation agents have a very low incidence of nausea and vomiting. A dedicated, licensed and certified anesthesia professional attends to the details of anesthesia while Dr. Colgrove operates. Most patients are unaccustomed to the sights and sounds of surgery which may be unsettling while under local anesthesia.
All types of anesthesia may be used. Under most circumstances, the patient has a heavy intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Most patients prefer general anesthesia when larger areas are involved. Regardless of the method of anesthesia, the patient will be comfortable and have no recollection of the procedure or any associated discomfort.
