Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 1/25/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi there - I am set to have breast augmentation surgery this coming Monday morning.  I have a head cold - which is almost gone;  but I still sound nasally.  Is my surgery going to be cancelled because of this cold?  I do not have a chest cold or any chest congestion or trouble breathing.  Thank you so much. - Joy

ANSWER: Hi Joy
You will be reviewed by the anaesthetist on Monday and he will make a decision with you about this. It is impossible to say what the decision will be, but remember this is an 'elective' procedure and so can wait if needed even if this is very disruptive to your plans. Your life and well being are more important and the anaesthetist should decide on that basis.
Sorry I can't give you a definite answer.
Dr Ian Jackson

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you, Dr. Jackson, for your speedy response.  As a follow-up, could you please tell me what are the dangers of going under a general anasthetic if one has a head cold?

Thanks again.

- Joy

Answer
Hi Joy
Various issues that we have to consider as anaesthetists.
The gases that you breathe under anaesthesia are dry (no humidity) as that is the only way they can be managed in pipelines and cylinders. Despite our best efforts with humidification these gases have an effect on the cilia in your lungs. These are cells with little hair like projections that move in waves to move the mucous from your lungs up into your throat. A bit like an escalator really. If these are damaged then it is more likely for any infection to go into your lungs - so any residual infection from your head cold could be made worse.
If you had any sore throat or cough as part of your illness then we find it takes a few weeks before your airways revert to normal function During this time they are more sensitive to what we do as anaesthetists and this can cause problems.
It may be that in a fit young person this is not an issue and that you had no cough or evidence of lung involvement with your head cold. However that is for your anaesthetist to go through with you on Monday.
I hope this helps a bit - I hope all goes well.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson