Question:
Has anyone ever had an epidural and stayed awake for surgery??

Ive seen where people have had epidurals for pain after surgery but has anyone had it as an alternative to being put under?????    — bobbie M. (posted on May 22, 2000)

May 21, 2000
I had a "local" some years back for foot surgery, and it was great for that. But,I would not recommend it for this kind of surgery. It can be up to 5 hours long, depending on many things, e.g., how much they have to cut through. In my case, the surgeon told me that cutting through my gallbladder scar just about wore him out. There are so many tiny little problems with this kind of surgery; no two people are alike. If the surgeon has to stop at various points and calm your fears, his consentration will be split. Anesthesia is not the scary thing it used to be. Good luck
   — [Anonymous]

May 22, 2000
Hi, you must have general anesthesia for this procedure because in order to get an adequate epidural block, the level would have to be so high,that it would interfere with your ability to breath. Spinals and epidurals are good for any surgery below the waiste because the level of numbness only has to go to the nipple line. when operating on the upper abdomen, you are already near the nipple line. Your anesthesiologist will be able to explain this a little better. (I'm a nurse, but not an expert in anesthesia). General anesthesia has improved greatly in the last 10years. There are better medications for it and better techiques. You will be fine with general Valerie
   — Valerie B.