What is General Anesthesia?

General anesthesia acts primarily on the brain and central nervous system. It is administered via the patient's circulatory system by a combination of inhaled gas and injected drugs. After the initial injection, anesthesia is maintained with inhaled gas anesthetics and additional drugs through the IV. Often, but not always, your anesthesiologist may insert a breathing tube or similar device to assist your respirations during your surgery.  Consciousness and awareness are completely lost under general anesthesia, and there is absolutely no pain.