Adverse effects and serious complications are very rare, but the
possibility does exist. The risk will vary according to your health
beforehand and the seriousness of your operation. In Canada, the
chance of a healthy person dying as a result of anesthesia is
probably between 1 in 200,000 and 1 in 400,000. This is certainly
comparable with the risks of commercial airline travel and much
safer than travelling by car.
Nausea is relatively common and is treated with appropriate
medication. Sore throat associated with breathing tube placement is
also quite common, but usually only lasts a day or so. Of course,
there are a number of infrequent, less serious complications, such
as pain and bruising at the site of injections, headaches, and
dental damage. These are usually easily treatable, get better
quickly, and are also quite rare.
Most people who undergo anesthesia are completely comfortable and
have no complications.
Be sure to ask any questions you may have
Before Surgery.
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