There are several types of anesthesia:
general, local or regional and epidural, to mention the best known. This film has been made to explain standard general anesthesia. We will lead you step by step through the entire procedure.
Anesthesia is not an end in itself but an aid.
It has 3 objectives:
- Avoid pain;
- Induce deep sleep and amnesia -- that is to say, a hypnotic state;
- Induce muscle relaxation to make the surgeon's work easier.
You will meet your surgeon approximately one month before your scheduled operation; then be sent for anesthetic consultation to discuss any medical problems you may have mentioned at that time.

Screenplay: Dr Eduardo Schiffer et Ariel Richard Arlaud
Director: Franck Schneider
Production: Communication Department
Department of Anesthesiology
Geneva University Hospitals