This type of anesthesia awareness is typically the most traumatic for patients. When the sedative does not work or wears off, the patient may have normal sensation and be wide awake, but the medications given to paralyze the body during surgery prevent them from alerting anyone to their problem.

What are the chances of anesthesia not working?

Anesthesia is very safe

“Now it's more like one in every 200,000 patients — it's very rare.” He emphasizes that anesthesia is safer today because of advances in both technology and medication. Anesthesiologists use a pulse oximeter to ensure that you get enough oxygen during surgery.

How often does anesthesia not work?

Anesthesia Awareness (Waking Up) During Surgery

Very rarely — in only one or two of every 1,000 medical procedures involving general anesthesia — a patient may become aware or conscious.