Wakefulness during Surgery

Wakefulness during surgery, often referred to as intraoperative awareness, is a rare condition where a patient becomes conscious and aware of their surroundings while under general anesthesia. This can lead to sensations, sounds, and even pain without the ability to move or communicate. It's distressing for those who experience it, though it occurs in a small percentage of surgeries. It’s usually attributed to inadequate anesthesia or certain medical conditions. Anesthesiologists monitor patients closely to ensure they remain deeply unconscious and unaware during procedures, minimizing the risk of this phenomenon.