About Group 7

Before the 1840s the mainstays of analgesia during surgery were oral opium, laudanum (an opium derivative), mandragora (from the mandrake plant) and generous doses of alcohol. Hereafter the pioneering methods of producing satisfactory surgical anaesthesia were laughing gas in 1844, ether in 1846 and chloroform in 1847. Although nobody knows up to this day exactly how general anaesthetics renders a patient unconscious, history has shown it to be no laughing matter, it holds irrefutable risks. Having said that, and keeping in mind that a surgical procedure with an anaesthetic is expectably not a walk in the park, we are today in a position to offer our patients a comfortable and safe peri-operative experience and a promise not to revert to the hammer!

All members of Group 7 are specialist anaesthetists with a masters degree in medicine in the speciality of Anaesthesia. As the profession becomes less of an art and more of a science we are dedicated to be up to date with all the latest advances internationally in our field. The doctor-patient-relationship in this case is unique in the sense that the first contact the anaesthesiologist has with his/her patient is just before the patient is put to sleep. In order to facilitate this relationship you will be asked to complete an anaesthetic form during your admission to hospital. This is a very important document and provides the anaesthesiologist with crucial information whereupon a risk analysis and an individualized anaesthetic plan are made for a safe procedure. Prior to your surgery the anaesthetist will do his/her preoperative visit where you will be examined and relevant information discussed. If it is an elective procedure this visit will most of the time take place in the ward whereas in an emergency or where admission happened after commencement of a list the visit will probably take place in theatre in the preoperative room. During the preoperative visit your anaesthesiologist may also provide you with a specific information sheet in case a spinal, epidural or other peripheral block will be implemented. Please read through the information sheet and discuss any questions or concerns with your anaesthesiologist. These information sheets as well as the orange anaesthetic form and consent form are also available on our website to read through before hospital admission. Take liberty to mention fears about awareness, pain, nausea and vomiting etc. This is also the time to discuss questions about your anaesthetic account. Please make sure that you have signed the consent form provided.

As medical professionals we want to assure you of our utmost precision of anaesthetic care and compassion for a speedy recovery.