The Cleveland Surgi-Center offers three types of anesthesia:

• LOCAL ANESTHESIA ONLY:
  
  This consists of several injections around or into the cervix which is not very sensitive to needle pricks.  Some sensation to cramping may be present.  Results are dependent on technique used, patient anxiety, and anatomical variations.
  
  
• INTRAVENOUS SEDATION BY A CERTIFIED REGISTERED NURSE ANESTHETIST:
  
  Administered by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist using sedative medications and may be accompanied by a local anesthetic. Anxiety is largely relieved and pain felt is decreased or absent.  The ability to breathe and cough spontaneously is usually intact.
  
  
• MONITORED ANESTHESIA CARE:
  
  Administered by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.  Patient is fully asleep and may require respiratory  assistance.

NOTE:  As with all medications, the final decision as to drugs used and depth of anesthesia must be made by the physician, in connection with the Nurse Anesthetist or the Registered Nurse.  Your wishes are important, but your safety comes first.

How do I choose the anesthesia that is right for me?

Patients can usually choose the type of anesthesia that they feel will work best for them. However, there are some restrictions as to who can and cannot receive Monitored Anesthesia Care (asleep).

There restrictions may come into play based on your height, weight and/or your medical history. It is very important that you are honest about your medical history, as decisions regarding the best care for you as an individual is based on this information.