Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 12/24/2007

Question
My daughter almost died in 2006. She was in the hospital for the better part of the year AND had many surgical procedures requiring general anaesthia. There were a total of at least eight times in a twelve month period, her last being a successful Nissan Fundoplication in May 2007.
I'm so grateful that she is so well & happy again. Since she's mentally retarded, she's given a general aneasthia once a year for dental check-up and cleaning. I understand why this is necessary, but she was due for this last week and I asked the dentist to wait until 2008 since it isn't urgent. Was I right in doing this? Also, is there a retention of anaesthia after so many times in a short period of time?
Thank You

Answer
Hi Donna
I am sorry that your daughter has had to have so many procedures and anaesthetics. However I can reassure you that they should not have a cumulative effect and we have lots of patients who need to attend regularly for procedures requiring general anaesthesia. If your daughters teeth are in good condition then there is no reason to rush for another GA but in reality there is no advantage in waiting.
Kind regards to you both and I hope 2008 is a good year for you.
Dr Ian Jackson