In the realm of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Anaesthetists are key members of the surgical team, ensuring patient safety and comfort before, during, and after surgery. Their expertise in Anaesthesia and pain management is crucial for the success of surgical procedures and patient recovery. The multifaceted role Anaesthetists play in supporting Foot and Ankle Surgeons is all part of enhancing patient care alongside Mr Eyre carrying out the surgical procedure.
Pre operative planning and assessment
Before any surgical procedure, the Anaesthetists are involved in comprehensive preoperative assessments to prepare the patient for anaesthesia and surgery. Their responsibilities include:
Medical History Review: Anaesthetists thoroughly review the patient’s medical history, current medications, and any previous experiences with anesthesia to identify potential risks and tailor the anesthesia plan accordingly.
Physical Examination: Conducting a physical examination to assess the patient’s overall health status and identify any conditions that may affect the anesthesia process.
Risk Stratification: Evaluating the patient’s risk factors, such as cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, to determine the safest anesthesia approach and to plan for any necessary precautions.
Patient Education: Informing patients about the anesthesia process, potential risks, and what to expect before, during, and after surgery, helping to alleviate anxiety and build trust.
Intraoperative Management
During Foot and Ankle Surgeries, anaesthetists are critical in managing anaesthesia and monitoring the patient’s vital functions. Their duties include:
- Administering Anaesthesia: Choosing and administering the appropriate type and dosage of anesthesia (general, regional, or local) to ensure the patient is pain-free and comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Monitoring Vital Signs: Continuously monitoring the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs to ensure stability and detect any signs of distress early.
- Managing Complications: Being prepared to address any intraoperative complications related to anaesthesia, such as allergic reactions, airway issues, or cardiovascular events, with prompt and effective interventions.
- Adjusting Anaesthesia Levels: Modulating the level of anaesthesia based on the surgical progress and the patient’s response, ensuring optimal conditions for both the patient and the surgical team.
Postoperative Care and Pain Management
The role of the anaesthetist extends into the postoperative period, focusing on recovery and pain management. Key responsibilities include:
- Recovery Room Supervision: Overseeing the patient’s transition from the operating room to the recovery room, ensuring a smooth and safe emergence from anesthesia.
- Pain Control: Implementing and managing postoperative pain relief strategies, which may include medications, nerve blocks, or other pain management techniques tailored to the patient’s needs.
- Monitoring Recovery: Assessing the patient’s recovery from anesthesia, monitoring for any side effects or complications, and ensuring the patient is stable before transferring care back to the surgical team or ward staff.
- Patient Education: Providing patients with information on postoperative pain management, including how to use prescribed medications and what to expect during the recovery period.
Anaesthetists are indispensable Foot and ankle surgical team members, providing critical support throughout the surgical process. Their expertise in preoperative assessment, intraoperative management, and postoperative care is essential for ensuring patient safety, comfort, and successful surgical outcomes. Mr Eyre had developed superb relationships with this anaesthetic team and through close collaboration, together they help optimise the surgical experience and enhance overall patient care.