What are the complications of anesthesia?

There are many possible complications of anesthesia. However the majority is quite rare. I will discuss the two most common complications-nausea/vomiting and dental damage.

Some people are prone to becoming nauseated, however the type of anesthetic and the type of surgery performed also play a part. Any surgery in the abdominal cavity is more likely to cause nausea. Also, surgery in the nose or the mouth may cause nausea because blood can be swallowed, thus irritating the stomach. Some people may get nauseated from the post-operative pain medicine. If you are deemed to be more likely to become nauseated, the anesthesiologist will give you medicine specifically designed to prevent this complication.

Occasionally, a patient will note a chipped tooth or loosened cap after surgery. This may occur while the anesthesiologist is manipulating the oral cavity to allow the patient to breathe adequately. Sometimes, a breathing tube is inserted into the trachea to make sure that the patient can breathe. To do this, the anesthesiologist uses a metal instrument to look into the patient's throat. If it is difficult to insert the tube, dental damage may occur.

Mark J. Gittler, M.D.
Diplomate, American Board of Anesthesiology
Member, South Bay Independent Physicians Medical Group, Inc.