Adolescent Substance Abuse Articles
Patients who wake during surgery may develop PTSD
By Staff Writer
Before undergoing major surgery, patients are treated with anesthesia. However, about two out of every 1000 of these individuals will wake during their procedure, according to a new study. This unintended state of awareness can be a cause of psychological trauma.
Researchers recently explored the reasons behind unintended awareness during surgery. In addition, they looked for ways to avoid what could potentially have long-term psychological ramifications, including the development of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Their report appears in the recent issue of Deutsches Ärzteblatt International.
Several possible reasons for awareness were identified. In most cases, patients awaken mid-procedure due to an inadequate amount of anesthesia. In some patients, the long-term use or misuse of painkillers and medications may also be a culprit behind this experience.
In addition, procedures such as caesarean sections and operations that are performed at night carry a higher risk of awareness. Children are also eight to ten times more at risk to wake up while under anesthesia.
To prevent future awareness incidences, the researchers behind the report recommend physicians take note of the risk factors listed in the report. They also believe that medical personnel can receive training to promote vigilance.
If a patient who has developed PTSD because of unintended awareness, professional treatment such as cognitive therapy should be started as soon as possible to ensure recovery.
