Complications of Anesthesia After Surgery
Postoperative anesthesia complications are influenced by the type of anesthesia used, the patient’s health, and the surgery performed. Below are common complications associated with anesthesia:
Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV)
PONV refers to nausea and vomiting occurring within 24–48 hours after surgery. It is one of the most frequent anesthesia-related complications, affecting up to 30% of patients and contributing to dissatisfaction with anesthesia care.
- Risk Factors:
- Female gender
- Non-smoking status
- History of PONV or motion sickness
- Surgery lasting over 60 minutes
- Use of postoperative opioids
Certain surgeries, such as gynecological, eye, ear, and thyroid procedures, are linked to higher rates of PONV, though research findings are not consistent.
Sore Throat and Hoarseness
These symptoms are caused by the breathing tube used during general anesthesia. Although uncomfortable, they usually resolve within a few days.
Delayed Recovery or Cognitive Issues
- Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD):
Temporary or long-term memory and attention issues are seen, especially in older patients. This may worsen pre-existing neurocognitive disorders. - Delirium:
An acute disturbance in attention and cognition develops, commonly affecting elderly patients.
Pain and Discomfort at Injection Sites
Bruising, swelling, or discomfort may occur at IV or injection sites. These symptoms are more common with regional anesthesia, such as spinal or epidural injections.
Respiratory Complications
- Hypoventilation:
Slow or shallow breathing occurs due to lingering effects of anesthesia. - Atelectasis:
Partial lung collapse may happen, increasing the risk of pneumonia.
Urinary Retention
This complication is seen more often after spinal or epidural anesthesia due to temporary loss of bladder control. Catheterization may be required.
Residual Paralysis and Muscle Weakness
Muscle relaxants may cause temporary movement difficulties or breathing problems. Rarely, nerve blocks may fail to produce the desired effect.
Backache and Headache
- Backache:
Caused by positioning on the operating table or the surgery itself. - Post-Dural Puncture Headache (PDPH):
Results from cerebrospinal fluid leakage after spinal anesthesia or accidental dural puncture. Symptoms include a positional headache, nausea, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light or sound.
Nerve Damage
Although rare, nerve damage may occur due to improper positioning, prolonged immobility, or trauma during spinal/epidural injections. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, weakness, or pain.
Infection at Injection Sites
Infections at injection sites, though uncommon, may develop if sterile techniques are not followed during epidural or spinal anesthesia.
Malignant Hyperthermia
A severe reaction to certain anesthetic drugs may result in dangerously high body temperature, muscle rigidity, rapid heart rate, and other symptoms. Without immediate treatment, this condition can be life-threatening.
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