Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 1/26/2010

Question
hello. could you advise what , if any, data exists on the effect of GA on the brain and perception, awareness, memory or any other effects on brain post operation. Can it affect mental states such as OCD, Post traumatic stress, tourettes?

Answer
Hi Mark
There is no information about the effects of anaesthesia on OCD or PTS. No one has shown any issues with tourettes.
General Anaesthesia can effect the brain and there is evidence that in the elderly this can be an issue in over 10% of those over 60. The effects seem to be memory and specific task related (eg some notice reduced mental agility for crosswords etc) and can last for a considerable time.
Apparently there is some evidence that this might be a genetic susceptability but I think we don't really know yet.
However end point is that it is very safe for us all - and all anaesthetists (me included) quite happily undergo repeated procedures under general anaesthesia without worrying about what effect it will have on our brain function.
Hope this helps
Dr Ian Jackson