Thin Plastic Tube inserted in the Back		Computerised Infusion Pump

Most of us are afraid of surgery, because we associate surgery with intense pain. Hence it is natural for the patient to know the intensity of pain after the surgery.

Generally, for hip replacement surgery, Epidural anesthesia is preferred. This is continued for pain relief in the days following surgery.

Due to this advanced technique, the pain after the surgery is much reduced. Hence the patient does not require to take strong pain relieving medication.

Epidural anesthesia is a technique in which a very thin plastic tube is inserted in patient's back. Through this tube the anaesthetic agents are injected during Surgery. After the surgery, this tube is connected to a computerized infusion pump, which controls the dose of medication given to the patient for relief of pain. The concerned anesthetist will take the care of this equipment.

The advantages of Epidural anesthesia are :

• It is safe for the elderly and those who have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart and lung ailment.
• The patient is awake during surgery if he/she so desires or can be sedated if required.
• Oral feeds can be started within 3 hours of surgery.
• This anesthesia is converted to mild dose to control pain after surgery. This is continued for 3 days after the surgery, thus avoiding strong pain relieving medicines which usually cause indigestion, acidity and drowsiness.
• Since the pain relief is adequate by this technique patient can be put to early exercise program.