Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 9/13/2011

Question
Hello!
Last week I had all 4 of my wisdom teeth removed. I was given thorough pre-op instructions on my consultation visit, which I followed in grave detail (fasting beforehand, etc). However, right before being put under I requested that they use a gas mask at first, just to knock me out, because I HATE needles. Well, doc didn't hear me and just went ahead and placed the needle, to which I went into panic mode. Don't quite know if it was a panic attack or not, but scary enough to give me nightmares during the procedure; graphic/detailed nightmares at that. Woke up after the procedure still scared out of my mind. Don't know if this is normal or what but I'd rather not have this happen if I have to go under the knife again...
I am a 21 y/o female, healthy as can be, just terrified.

Answer
Generally speaking, we do not do inhalational inductions in adults because they are slightly more risky than doing IV inductions for a variety of reasons. That being said, it is not unheard of and assuming you have no other medical problems, it could be done. There are also ways to treat needle phobia other than the way you were treated this time. I would recommend, if you need surgery in the future, to talk with the anesthesiologist the day before and review your fear so that they can prepare properly and you won't haqve to go through that experience again.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston