Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 3/16/2009

Question
Dear Dr. I recently had a pacemaker implanted. Both my husband and I informed the surgeon and anethesiologist that I do not freeze or go under well. I had my surgery screaming in pain-sheer agony.How can a person do this to someone. Is it usual practice for the operation to continue under these conditions? After the operation the anesthesiest said, wow you're right!I am having a problem getting over this. It also happened during my valve replacement operation.
Thank you for answering.


Answer
HI there Barbara
It is difficult to understand what exactly happened with your procedure. Like your doctors I would say that local anaesthetics work in everyone provided you give enough and put it where it is needed. I do suspect some people require far higher doses than others for a variety of reasons.
I am surprised that they continued without giving you something to manage the pain - especially if an anaesthetist was present. I cannot really comment on why they continued as I don't know at what stage you felt the severe pain or if they actually gave you something to try and help you through it.
I am really sorry to hear about this experience and I can understand why it has upset you. Certainly in the UK as Director of our Department I would expect to have a long chat with any patient about what had happened to them and to ensure that lessons were learned.
Sorry I can't help further
Dr Ian Jackson