On 16 October 1846, the world witnessed its first successful surgical procedure using ether anaesthesia in Boston, USA—forever transforming the course of medical history. Nearly two centuries later, World Anaesthesia Day commemorates that ground-breaking moment. But modern anaesthesiology isn’t just about honouring history—it’s about expanding the boundaries of healing.
Today, anaesthesiologists are not only making surgery safer; they’re quietly reshaping how patients live with long-term conditions such as chronic pain and non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Traditionally, anaesthesiologists ensured patients were pain-free and unconscious during operations—using general anaesthesia, sedation, and analgesia. These tools were delivered with precision, often in high-stakes environments, and always under constant monitoring of vital functions. But the field has grown far beyond the confines of the operating theatre. “Anaesthesia is now a continuum,” says Dr Yatin Mehta, Chairman of Critical Care at Medanta, Gurugram. "Our role doesn’t begin and end in the OT. Today, we’re addressing pain and disease states that follow people home", Dr Mehta tells Moneycontrol.
Also Read: What happens when you are put under anaesthesia? The science and mystery explained
Chronic pain and NCDs:
Chronic conditions like back pain, diabetic neuropathy, and cancer-related discomfort affect 1 in 5 adults worldwide. These aren’t momentary aches—they are persistent, often invisible, and can take a devastating toll on mental and emotional health. “Alongside this, non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and chronic lung conditions—require continuous care. They are now the leading cause of death globally and demand not just emergency response, but consistent, long-term management.” Dr Mehta informs, and adds, “Today we have strategies not just for relief, but for long-term functional recovery.”
Dr Mehta shares anaesthesia’s modern rooms and therapies against pain:
Nerve blocks: Targeted injections that stop pain signals right at their source, highly effective for joint or nerve pain.
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS): A small implant near the spine emits electrical pulses, disrupting pain signals before they reach the brain.
Multimodal anaesthesia: A safer, smarter approach that combines nerve blocks with non-opioid medications like ketamine, lidocaine, gabapentinoids, and regional anaesthesia.
Acute and transitional pain services: Specialist teams provide care before and after surgery, supporting pain management in and out of the hospital.
Pre-op opioid weaning: Chronic opioid users are gradually tapered off before surgery to improve outcomes and reduce post-operative complications.
Patients on long-term opioids, for instance, may build tolerance or develop opioid-induced hyperalgesia, where the drugs paradoxically increase pain. “We can’t just throw more drugs at them,” Dr Mehta tells Moneycontrol. "We study their history, work with psychologists and physiotherapists, and design a tailored plan", he added. This multidisciplinary model is key to sustainable recovery. It brings together not just medication, but compassion, collaboration, and continued support.
FAQs on Anaesthesia:
1. What is anaesthesia and how does it work?
Anaesthesia is the use of drugs to prevent pain during surgery. It works by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain.
2. What are the different types of anaesthesia?
The main types are general anaesthesia, regional anaesthesia, and local anaesthesia. Each works differently to manage pain and consciousness during procedures.
3. Is anaesthesia safe?
Anaesthesia is generally safe when administered by trained professionals. Anaesthesiologists constantly monitor vital functions to ensure patient safety.
4. What happens when you are put under anaesthesia?
You become unconscious and pain-free, allowing surgeons to perform procedures without discomfort. The anaesthesiologist adjusts the medication to maintain this state throughout the surgery.
5. Are there side effects to anaesthesia?
Potential side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and temporary confusion. Serious complications are rare but can occur.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.
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