Anesthesiologist in Riga | Republikas laukuma klīnika
What is an anesthesiologist consultation?
An anesthesiologist consultation is an essential preparation step before any surgery or invasive procedure involving anesthesia. Its purpose is to assess the patient’s overall health, choose the most suitable type of anesthesia, and minimize risks during the operation.
This consultation is mandatory before planned surgeries and is typically conducted in hospitals, private clinics, or day surgery centers.
Dr. Jānis Margevičus
What does an anesthesiologist do?
An anesthesiologist is a doctor specialized in pain management and anesthesia. During the consultation, they:
- Review the patient’s medical history
- Assess heart, lung, kidney, and liver function
- Analyze past anesthesia experiences and side effects
- Evaluate allergies, medications, and lifestyle factors
- Provide recommendations for preoperative preparation
- Explain anesthesia risks and potential side effects
How does the consultation proceed?
A typical consultation lasts about 20 minutes and includes:
- Medical history review – diseases, allergies, medications, previous surgeries
- Physical examination – blood pressure, oral cavity check, BMI measurement
- Additional tests – blood work, EKG, chest X-ray, or spirometry
- Discussion – explanation of anesthesia type and answers to patient questions
Types of anesthesia
The anesthesiologist selects the most suitable anesthesia based on the procedure and patient health:
General anesthesia – complete unconsciousness during surgery
General anesthesia puts the patient into a fully unconscious state during the operation. You will not feel pain, be aware of the procedure, or remember it afterward. Breathing is often supported or controlled by anesthesia equipment. This type of anesthesia is typically used for major or complex surgeries that require complete immobility and deep pain control.
Regional anesthesia – pain block in a specific area of the body
Regional anesthesia numbs a specific part of the body while the patient remains conscious. For example, spinal or epidural anesthesia used during a C-section blocks sensation in the lower half of the body. You may still feel pressure or movement, but you should not feel pain.
Sedation – intravenous sedatives while keeping the patient conscious
Sedation involves giving medications through an IV to help you relax and reduce anxiety and discomfort. You may feel drowsy, very calm, or even fall lightly asleep, but you usually continue to breathe on your own and can respond to instructions. Sedation is commonly used for minor or minimally invasive procedures, such as endoscopy or certain diagnostic tests.
Common risks and side effects
While modern anesthesia is generally safe, some risks exist:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache or dizziness
- Allergic reactions
- Respiratory issues (rare)
- Heart rhythm changes
- Temporary post-operative consciousness changes
An anesthesiologist carefully evaluates all factors to minimize the risk of complications.
How to prepare for the anesthesiologist consultation?
Patients should bring:
- Records from previous surgeries
- List of daily medications (with dosages)
- Information about allergies and chronic diseases
- Recent lab or EKG results
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is an essential safety step to prevent complications.
Patient preferences are considered, but the anesthesiologist makes the final decision based on medical criteria.
Consultation only: €60.00
Preoperative tests with consultation: €160.00
