For heart rhythm studies, general anaesthesia or sedation may be used.
Ask your cardiologist if you can meet with your anaesthetist before the day of your procedure. This way you won’t be hurried or stressed and can be involved in the planning.
Your anaesthetist is responsible for your anaesthesia and wellbeing during the procedure as well as your post-operative pain relief.
Pre-medication
You may be offered medication before your procedure to prevent nausea, reduce stomach acid or help you relax. If you think you’ll be feeling anxious before your procedure, ask if you can have something to relax you.
Sedation
Light sedation will make you feel relaxed while deeper sedation will most likely make you go to sleep so you’re unlikely to remember much or anything that happens during the procedure.
General anaesthetic
With a general anaesthetic, you’ll be unconscious for your procedure and a tube will be inserted into your throat to help you breathe. You may wake up with a sore throat from the tube. General anaesthetics may cause post-operative nausea and vomiting.
If you’re overweight or obese, there are increased risks associated with general anaesthesia.
Pain relief after procedure
If you have discomfort after your procedure you’ll be given pain relief medication prescribed by your anaesthetist.
This can be given at regular times or when pain starts to bother you.
Print this page to take when you meet with your cardiologist and anaesthetist.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.