This involves medication being given to you through an IV line that makes you drowsy and relaxed. You may fall asleep but some people do not fall completely asleep. Oxygen is given to you through a clear plastic mask that fits loosely over your nose and mouth. You will be fully monitored while the sedation is being given to you. Parts of the procedure may be uncomfortable and wake you – the anaesthetist will be able to give further doses or increase the sedative infusion to allow you to doze off again. Most people have no memory of the procedure at all once they are fully awake in the recovery ward.

Your anaesthetist will discuss the options for anaesthetic choices with you when they see you and will choose the most appropriate anaesthetic based on your medical fitness, type of surgery and your own preferences. Once the decision is made, you will be asked to sign a consent form highlighting the risks relating to that type of anaesthetic as a record that this conversation has taken place.