Anesthesia Services

Anesthesiology is the practice of medicine dedicated to the relief of pain and total care of the surgical patient before, during and after surgery. Anesthesia services at Lexington Medical Center are provided by board certified anesthesiologists from Wake Forest Baptist Health. Anesthesia care is administered by an anesthesiologist, or by an anesthesia care team consisting of both an anesthesiologist and a CRNA (certified registered nurse anesthetist).

Throughout your procedure, we use advanced technology to monitor vital signs such as breathing, blood pressure, brain function and heart rhythm. We are here to diagnose and treat patients in the operating room, recovery room and intensive care unit.

Meeting Your Anesthesiologist

You will meet your anesthesiologist during a pre-anesthesia interview, usually the day of surgery. He or she will ask questions about your medical history, current conditions, allergies and medications. Please list all medications and/or herbal supplements you are currently taking. Please feel free to ask any questions about the types of anesthesia, risks and benefits - we want you to be informed and comfortable.

What to Expect After Surgery

In-Patient Surgery

Immediately following surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room, where a specialized nurse will assist in your care while you "wake up." Following your initial recovery period, you will be returned to your room.

Out-Patient Surgery

After surgery, you will remain with the recovery nurses until your medical team has determined that your anesthetic has worn off. You will then be released. Please arrange to have a responsible adult take you home. Your driving abilities may be affected for at least 48 hours; therefore, you cannot be released unless you are accompanied by an adult. Please be sure to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions. Don't hesitate to talk to your anesthesiologist or CRNA if you have any questions. 

Post-Operative Pain Relief

In addition to relief of patients' pain during a surgical procedure, it is equally important for the patient's comfort and well-being to receive adequate pain relief postoperatively. Anesthesiologists are responsible for ensuring that a patient's pain is under control before they are discharged from the recovery room. An anesthesiologist may prescribe specific pain medications or perform specialized procedures to maximize patient comfort, which helps to minimize stress on the patient's heart and blood pressure. The techniques that are best suited for each individual patient are chosen to allow for proper rest and healing.

Anesthesia FAQ