Hi,

I have heard some people mention a breathing tube while they are under anesthesia... is that true? If so why? Just curious.

Thanks,

Shannon:huh2:

It's a standard procedure to ensure you remain able to breathe. When you're under general, you're gone, including the likelihood that you would not breathe on your own.

If you're nervous about it, run a search on it here. I know it has come up a few times in the last handful of weeks.

because when they do the operation the gas they insert in you numbs you and therefore it breathes for you. This is general anesthesia. Its is fine unless they pierce your esphogus wall. Then you bleed and they bring you out.

I am sure I had a breathing tube, but never knew it or felt any effects from it. For me, it wasn't a major issue before or after the surgery.

Its true, not sure why except to help you breath - they are manipulating your insides fairly close to your lungs so that may be why.

They do it after your out and pull it before you wake so other than a slight sore throat you never know about it.

Thanks everyone! I don't think it scares me... not yet any way... Still in the process of going to all my appointments so I don't have a surgery date... I can't wait for the call... My last appointment is with the surgeon on April 15th... after that they can put in for a claim for insurance... How long do you think it will take to get a surgery date??? I'm guessing it won't be until mid-May... sound about right?

Smiles,

Shannon

They put it in and took it out while I was under. I remember saying "judging by how my throat feels right now, I'm going to guess I had a breathing tube".

But it really wasn't a big deal in the grand scheme of things.

when i had my gallbladder removed i had abreathing tube......... they gave me one bc i have asthma........ its okay but during the surgery or waking up process i must of bit the tube bc wen i woke up my lips had cuts all over them n hurt like i was biting my lips for days

Angie, I had a cut on my mouth and in my mouth, 3 weeks after the procedure, I spit out plastic from the roof of my mouth. But this is not going to stop me from getting the band. BSurgeon knows all about it. He asked me to get an endoscopy. 3/27 I go to the gastro then he will set up a date for endoscope. Then I will call Surgeon and see what happens. I think my day may be April late or early May pending all goes well.

Hi,

I have heard some people mention a breathing tube while they are under anesthesia... is that true? If so why? Just curious.

Thanks,

Shannon:huh2:

Shannon, the reason for the breathing tube is twofold. First, when you are unconscious, you are unable to maintain your airway. That means you are not able to clear your throat or cough. Plus the meds that put you under severely depress your respiratory drive. Secondly, and not many people are aware of this, you are paralyzed during surgery. This provides better airway control and prevents involuntary movement during surgery. I would hate to have my surgeon try to hit a moving target.:biggrin2: The medications to knock you out and paralyze you are given in your IV. I could be wrong on this next part, but I do not believe gas anesthesia is used very much anymore. That provides more of a conscious sedation versus anesthesia.

And finally, the tube is inserted through your vocal cords into your lungs. The breathing tube is not in your esophagus (if it is- that is a bad thing).

Sorry if this is too much info- that is the educator in me coming out!!

Best wishes!!