Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 5/22/2011

Question
I had a colonoscopy ten years ago and carpal tunnel surgery five years ago. Both times, coming out of the anesthesia was easy; a little confusion at first, then life as usual, with no mental or physical effects other than being a little tired. Three days ago I had a D&C and hysteroscopy. I'm feeling few ill effects from the procedure itself, but I'm miserable from what I think are the after effects of the anesthesia. I've had coughing so severe my muscles ache, my mouth was dry for over 24 hours making swallowing difficult, especially when eating. I feel like I have phlegm in my throat that won't go away, which the anesthesiologist attributed to a bruised trachea. I have a large sore spot on my lip and minor sore throat. I'm still a little unsteady on my feet and lightheaded, having some trouble concentrating. It's possible that I could need additional surgery and the thought of repeating this anesthesia experience is troubling. Does it have to be this way? Is it still possible to have the type of anesthesia I had years ago? If so, what do I say to the anesthesiologist to get it? If not, what do I do to ensure a better experience?

Thank you.

Answer
I can only guess at what happened since I don't have the anesthetic record in front of me. My guess is the anesthesiologist had a little trouble intubating you (hence the lip and sore throat). He may have also used a larger endotracheal tube than you needed. As for the light-headedness, that could have several causes. It might be a result of a low blood count or just the stress of surgery (although it is a minor procedure). It is unlikely that these are anesthetic effects three days out.
As for future surgeries, it is unlikely that you will have the same experience (assuming you have a different anesthesiologist) but these procedures are generally done under Propofol anesthesia which had less post-op side effects (you may have gotten that, this time). You can always get a copy of you anesthetic record and bring it with you to the next anesthesiologist so they will try a different approach.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston