Many people prefer not to dwell on the details of what occurs when they are under general anesthesia during surgery.
The idea of being completely unconscious while a medical procedure is performed can indeed be unsettling.
For those outside the medical profession, the specifics of what transpires during this time are often unknown.
However, if you’re curious about the process, a TikTok account has shared a demonstration with the help of a mannequin named ‘Vivienne’.
During certain surgeries, a ventilator is used to ensure the patient maintains adequate airflow while under anesthesia. Very Well Health explains this is because anesthesia affects the muscles involved in inhaling and exhaling.
“General anesthesia lowers the level of a patient’s consciousness during surgery. A paralytic that paralyzes the muscles of the body temporarily may be necessary depending on the patient’s respiratory needs or the needs of the operation,” they state.
“This includes the muscles that allow us to inhale and exhale. Without a ventilator, breathing during general anesthesia would not be possible.
“Most people are on the ventilator while the surgery is taking place. Once the anesthesia stops, the person is able to breathe on their own and is removed from the ventilator.”
The TikTok account Echo Healthcare has shown a demonstration of the process and how a ventilator is placed.
“Have you ever been put under for a dreaded surgery?” the voiceover questions, continuing: “Well, what’s happening to [the mannequin] is what happens to us.
“I know, it’s terrifying! But honestly, it’s pretty cool if you ask me.”
Many viewers were surprised by the clip, while some shared their personal experiences.
“I’m so glad I didn’t ever see this before my surgeries,” one person commented, with another adding: “I hope they are more gentle.”
Some recounted their experiences with ventilators, with another individual noting: “I was awake for 2 days while intubated after a 5-day coma.
“It is so odd and NOT fun.”
Fortunately, for those who found the video daunting, ventilators are not used for every surgical procedure. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute explains that it depends on the situation.
According to NHLBI’s website on ‘Who Needs a Ventilator’, not every surgical procedure requires a ventilator.
“You may need a ventilator if you are going to have surgery with general anesthesia,” the site clarifies.
“The medicines used for anesthesia can affect your normal breathing. A ventilator helps control your breathing.”
Alternatives, such as receiving oxygen through a face mask as opposed to a breathing tube, can also be considered.