Anaesthesia refers to methods that remove or reduce sensation, particularly pain, during treatment. These include local anaesthesia, regional techniques and general anaesthesia. Sedation, sometimes called twilight sedation, reduces alertness and awareness; it does not automatically provide adequate pain relief.
The choice depends on the procedure, the person's health, medication and previous experience of anaesthesia. When a general anaesthetic is planned, preparation includes an assessment by an anaesthetist. Local anaesthesia also has potential side effects.
Instructions on fasting, medicines and having someone accompany you are provided individually. Sedation and anaesthesia impair reaction times and the ability to drive afterwards. Monitoring continues until safe arrangements for further care are in place.