What we do

We find that our patients generally only know a small amount about what an Anaethetist actually does. The Australian Society of Anaesthetists. provide very helpful information on this, summarised with thanks below.

What is Anaesthesia?

‘Anaesthesia’ is derived from the Greek word that basically means ‘without sensation’.  In the medical world, this term is used to describe the process a patient experiences when having a surgery or other medical procedure. An anaesthetic involves three different things – unconsciousness, amnesia and analgesia (pain relief).

Who are Anaesthetists?

Anaesthetists, like your surgeon, are medical specialists who have completed several years of medicine at university, internship and residency. They have then specialised in anaesthesia for a minimum of another 5 years. Having passed two exams set by the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists they are able to practice as specialist anaesthetists.

The anaesthetic training program in Australia is recognised as one of the most comprehensive, rigorous and respected programs in the world. Many Australian anaesthetists spend more than the required five years of training, either sub-specialising or obtaining other medical degrees or diplomas.

In terms of anaesthetic complications and outcomes Australia is arguably the safest place in the world to have an anaesthetic.

What are the types of Anaesthsia?


A nerve block numbs the part of the body where the surgeon operates and this avoids the need for general anaesthesia. You may be awake or sedated. Examples of regional anaesthesia include epidurals for labour, spinal anaesthesia for caesarean section and ‘eye blocks’ for cataracts.



What do we do during surgery?

Although most people think they are “asleep” during an operation, you are actually in a state of controlled unconsciousness. Your anaesthetist is there to monitor and control your level of unconsciousness to ensure you are unaware and free of pain during your operation. During this time your anaesthetist takes over care and control of all your major bodily functions such as blood pressure, breathing and fluid requirements.

Unlike some other countries where it may be an anaesthetic tech or nurse who remains with you, in Australia your anaesthetist remains at your side for the duration of your procedure until you are in the recovery ward, where your care will be supervised by a recovery nurse.

Anaesthetists are also highly trained in pain management, preoperative medical preparation and critical care services. They are experts in resuscitation and managing acutely ill patients. They are frequently the ones called to assist other doctors during cardiac arrests and trauma.