General anesthesia

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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

General anesthesia is a treatment that puts you to sleep during medical procedures, so you don't feel or remember anything that happens. General anesthesia is commonly produced by intravenous drugs or inhaled gasses.

The "sleep" you experience under general anesthesia is different from regular sleep. The anesthetized brain doesn't form memories or respond to pain signals.

Why it's done

MY00100

June 27, 2008

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