I know you shouldn't Google medical stuff but....

[Fizbosshoes]

Please don't laugh at me- maybe this is all quite normal

I'm having a minor medical procedure under general anaesthetic this week. I'm pretty nervous because I've never had any kind of surgery/hospital treatment before.

I've been given lots of general info about general anaesthetic- a lot of which isn't relevant as I will be home the same day. But no info at all about the specific procedure.
I have several questions which I hoped to ask at the pre-OP assessment but that seemed all very general as well.

I've googled it from the health Trust I'm under ....but that info says it will be done under local anaesthetic....so not necessarily the same.
Is Google my friend, or will all be explained when I turn up?
I've got a phone number but I feel like they will too busy to exain things to a nervous patient (especially if all will be made clear on the day!)

Have you already been consented? Whoever brings you the consent form should talk you through the procedure and answer any questions you have.

I like to watch videos of the procedure prior to being admitted. I am a little "quirky" though.

I would just call and ask them. Unless you're happy to wait until the day and see what happens. But if you are someone who likes to know in advance and to prepare yourself, asking is fine.

It's very possible that they may usually do the procedure under local but for some reason are doing it under GA because they have identified that you may be more comfortable for whatever reason.

There is also the confusion around 'sedation' though. Some procedures, a colonoscopy, for example, can be done using sedation. This means you are relaxed (in theory) but awake. Many people find they are pretty knocked out and don't remember it. But it's not GA. It's sedation. I've had sedation for procedures several times and I was wide awake the entire time, even at the max dose (unfortunately).

Just call and ask what the plans are for you. It sounds like you would feel more relaxed about it knowing what to expect.