Paralyzed and Awake During Surgery

Nov. 30, 2007— -- Opening in theaters today, the thriller "Awake" is about a man who wakes up during surgery -- paralyzed and unable to communicate the pain he feels.

Though no official comprehensive studies have determined its frequency, the movie estimates that 30,000 Americans will experience some form of this condition this year. What is it and how can you prevent it from happening to you?

Below is information from the American Society of Anesthesiologists and American Association of Nurse Anesthetists.

Awareness under general anesthetic is a rare condition that occurs when surgical patients can recall their surroundings or an event -- sometimes even pain -- related to their surgery while anesthetized. When using other kinds of anesthetic, such as local, sedation or a regional anesthetic, it is expected that patients will have some recollection of the procedure.

Though the movie "Awake" claims that 30,000 Americans will experience patient awareness this year, there are no conclusive studies on its frequency, but even one case is important to anesthesiologists and certified registered nurse anesthetists, who recognize that this can be a distressing or traumatic experience for the patient.

When awareness does occur, it usually happens just before the anesthetic takes complete effect or as the patient emerges from the anesthetic. In very few instances, it may occur during the surgery itself.

Awareness can occur in high-risk surgeries, such as trauma and cardiac surgery, in which the patient's condition may not allow for a deep anesthetic to be given. In those instances, the anesthesia professional weighs the potential for awareness against the need to guard the patient's life or safety. The same is true during a Caesarean section, particularly if it is an emergency and a deep anesthetic is not best for the mother or child.