Tag

General Anesthesia

All articles tagged with #general anesthesia

health2 years ago

"Debate Over Necessity of Full Anesthesia for Colonoscopy"

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts has implemented a new policy restricting the availability of general anesthesia for colonoscopy procedures, facing backlash from gastroenterologists who argue that it makes the procedure more difficult and discourages patients from receiving preventative care. The policy, effective as of Jan. 1, states that general anesthesia is not "medically necessary" for certain patients, leading to concerns about delays or abandonment of necessary procedures. The decision has sparked debate over patient access, procedural difficulties, and potential impacts on colon cancer detection and mortality rates.

neuroscience2 years ago

Unveiling the Unconscious: Study Reveals Cortical Network Engagement

A recent study conducted by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital has identified distinct cortical networks that are engaged during different states of unconsciousness, such as sleep and general anesthesia induced by propofol. The study found that during sleep, the brain shows simpler and reduced brain connections, while under anesthesia, changes in prefrontal regions are particularly prominent. These findings suggest that different parts of the brain are involved in different ways during different forms of unconsciousness. The research could contribute to our understanding of consciousness and have implications for therapeutic neuromodulation.

health2 years ago

Pope Francis undergoes surgery for intestinal obstruction.

Pope Francis was hospitalized for intestinal surgery to address an obstruction caused by a hernia. The procedure involves inserting an intestinal prosthesis and the pope will be under general anesthesia. This is his second hospitalization this year, and despite his health issues, he has maintained an energetic pace for most of his decade as pope. The Vatican has announced a busy schedule for him this year, including planned trips to Portugal and Mongolia.