--- title: "Anesthesia services at Sutter Health" description: "Experience pain-free surgical care with Sutter's anesthesia services. Our advanced techniques ensure safe, comfortable and effective pain management." url: "https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/anesthesia" --- 1. [Home](https://www.sutterhealth.org/) / 2. [Services](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services) / 3. Anesthesia services # Anesthesia You’ll receive anesthesia under the watchful eye of our skilled anesthesia teams to prevent pain during surgery or medical procedures. [Find an anesthesiologist](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-provider-results?facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_providerSpecialties.specialty.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Anesthesiology%22%5D%7D%5D&verticalKey=healthcare_professionals) [Request a referral](https://www.sutterhealth.org/referrals) Why choose Sutter? There are three main types of anesthesia: general, regional and local. Your doctor may administer anesthesia as a topical agent, anesthetic gas, intravenous medication or regional block that numbs a specific body part. Our anesthesiologists evaluate your body’s needs and your medical history to determine which anesthetic will make you as comfortable as possible. You’ll meet with your anesthesiology providers before surgery for a quick examination and to talk through any questions you or your family may have. Rest assured, we’ll keep a close eye on your vitals before, during and after your surgery. ## By the numbers ### 345+ Sutter anesthesiologists provide skilled, comprehensive care when you need surgery. ### 44 surgery locations in our communities so you can have procedures performed close to home. ### 10 Sutter hospitals honored as America's best for 2024 by Healthgrades. ### 1 in 100 Americans receive their healthcare from Sutter. ## Need a referral? Chat live with our team Monday through Friday, 8:00 am — 5:00 pm, or call us at [888-834-1788](tel:+18888341788). [Request a referral](https://www.sutterhealth.org/referrals) ## Frequently asked questions **What are the side effects of anesthesia?**  The most common side effects of anesthesia are nausea, sore throat and headache. Children are often disoriented from anesthesia and may be temporarily delirious in the recovery room when they wake up. With spinal and epidural anesthetics, temporary difficulty with urination is common. Some pain medications may cause common and temporary conditions like itching and nausea. **May I choose my anesthesiologist?** In most cases, you may choose your anesthesiologist. Let the surgeon performing your procedure know beforehand if you want to select your anesthesiologist. **May I request the type of anesthesia I will receive?** Yes, but the final selection depends on the type of surgery or procedure, your medical condition and your doctor’s medical judgment. **What are the risks of anesthesia?** Anesthesia is safer today than ever, thanks to our anesthesiologists’ extensive training and sophisticated monitoring equipment. Severe and potentially fatal complications are very rare, but your risk depends on the type of surgery and your overall health. If you have questions about risks, please speak with your anesthesiologist. **Why do I need to fast the night before surgery?** Your stomach needs to be empty for surgery to avoid the small risk of stomach contents getting into your lungs during the procedure. For your safety, we may postpone your surgery if you eat or drink after midnight the night before your surgery (unless your doctor directs you to do so). **What should I do if I have a pacemaker?** Please bring any information regarding your pacemaker into the operating room. The type of pacemaker and the last time it was checked are critical. If you can, ask your cardiologist or pacemaker technician what the “magnet mode” is for your pacemaker. **Should I take my regular medications?** If you’re taking medications, consult your doctor or anesthesiologist about whether to take them before surgery. Depending on your particular condition, your anesthesiologist may adjust your prescriptions or dosages. **Where will I go after surgery?** You’ll be monitored in the recovery room until your anesthesiologist and nurse feel you’re stable enough to transfer to a regular hospital room or go home. You may go directly from the operating room to the intensive care unit for some surgeries. **Is anesthesia only provided in the operating room?** We provide anesthesia services in many areas including but not limited to: - Clinics - Emergency department - Inpatient and outpatient operating rooms - Obstetrical and gynecological rooms - Psychiatry department - Radiology department - Special procedure areas (e.g., endoscopy suite, pain management clinic, etc.) ## Anesthesia care before, during and after procedures Meet with providers who ensure your safety and comfort with personalized anesthesia care before, during and after. 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