All types of anesthesia are administered to keep you comfortable and pain-free during surgery, medical procedures, or tests. But there are some key differences. The type you receive will depend on factors like the procedure, your health, and your preference.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is used for major operations, such as a knee replacement or open-heart surgery, and causes you to lose consciousness.

IV/Monitored Sedation

Sedation is often used for minimally invasive procedures like colonoscopies. The level of sedation ranges from minimal - drowsy but able to talk - to deep.

Regional Anesthesia

Regional anesthesia is often used during childbirth and surgeries of the arm, leg, or abdomen. It numbs a large part of the body, but you remain aware.

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is for procedures such as getting stitches or having a mole removed. It numbs a small area, and you are alert and awake.