It might sound daunting – particularly for the more squeamish – but NHS patients are now routinely being offered complex hand surgery while wide awake, with doctors claiming the method is faster and safer than operating with a general anaesthetic. During the pandemic, a lot of hand surgery has been carried out like this, as it has allowed surgeons to continue operating while faced with staff shortages and reduced theatre capacity. Patients are given the anaesthetic and adrenaline injection at the site of the injury on their arm or hand. Patients are given the anaesthetic and adrenaline injection at the site of the injury on their arm or hand. Although some patients are apprehensive about staying awake during their surgery, Mr Gardiner says it can be a very relaxing experience.

Source: Daily Mail July 11, 2020 21:03 UTC