Surgeons should watch what they say as new evidence suggests that patients under general anaesthesia may actually be hearing conversations inside the operating theatre. Clinical considerations make it desirable to give the lowest dose of the anaesthetic to the patient. But doctors must ensure that care should be taken to prevent the patient overhearing operating theatre conversations that may affect their mental health without leaving a conscious memory says Jackie Andrade of the University of Sheffield, UK. Especially if there is any danger to patient and the doctors discuss during the operation. Giving reassuring messages would be beneficial to the patient. Unlike people who were drugged and not operated upon, subjects who were not only sedated but who also underwent surgery did have some memory for the words that they experienced during their operations. Andrade found that they had what is known as 'implicit memory'.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.