Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 5/26/2008

Question
I have been through three surgeries in two different hospitals in the past year, and I find the same scenario each time I am taken to the OR.  From somewhere behind me, a hand with a mask suddenly plops onto my face with instructions from a disembodied voice.  I hate that!  I am wondering if there is a reason they hide behind you and mask you without warning?  It really does startle me and I wish they would let you know, "Okay, I'm behind you and ready to begin."  I do appreciate all they do for me during surgery--my life is in their hands.  But I wish they wouldn't startle me with the mask.

Answer
It's not that they hide behind you but rather that is where the equipment is. I agree they shouldn't just plop it on you and I always tell my residents to be considerate of the patient in that respect, but sometimes in the rush to get the cases moving, anesthesiolgists forget the most important person in the room. I suggest the next time you have surgery to specifically tell the anesthesiologist that you would like him/her to warn you beforehand that he is about to put the mask on. I am sure they will be hhappy to comply.

Ronald Levy, MD
Associate PRofessor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston