Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 5/14/2009

Question
I am 73 and getting ready for knee replacement surgery.  I am afraid to be put to sleep because I am afraid the anesthesia will effect my memory.  My mother had surgery when she was in her early 80's and has suffered from short term memory loss since.  She was a very active person and maintained her own household and paid all of her bills.  Since that time she has not been able to drive,take care of her everyday needs, because she cannot remember any immediate events.  Her long term memory loss is still fine.  I do not want to end up that way and therefore have been putting off having a "much needed" surgery.  What's your opinion?

Answer
I'm afraid this can happen and the incidence is probably around 1 in 8 people at your age. I would ask for the procedure to be done under a spinal anaesthetic - this is what we use routinely now for this operation. That way you can stay awake and avoid the general anaesthetic drugs that seem to ahve an effect on some patients.
Hope this helps
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson