General information

What is Anesthesiology?

Anesthesiology is a branch of medicine focused on pain control, sedation, and safe patient management. It develops and applies methods for pain relief, muscle relaxation, and controlled alteration of consciousness, with the goal of ensuring that diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are performed safely and comfortably. The term "anesthesia" comes from Greek and means absence of sensation.

What Does an Anesthesiologist Do?

- Patient Assessment and Preparation

The anesthesiologist is the physician responsible for maintaining and supporting the patient's vital functions using medications and, when necessary, specialized techniques such as assisted breathing, placement of intravenous (IV) lines, and cardiac support. They determine the appropriate level of care and continuously monitor the patient's condition until full stabilization is achieved.

- Pre-operative Preparation

Before any procedure, the anesthesiologist reviews the planned intervention to determine the most appropriate type and duration of anesthesia. For elective (scheduled) procedures, they meet with the patient (and family members, if appropriate) to explain the process, discuss potential risks, and review any medical conditions or contraindications.

- During and After Surgery

During the procedure, the anesthesiologist induces and maintains anesthesia while continuously monitoring breathing, heart activity, blood pressure, circulation, body temperature, and other key clinical indicators. They make adjustments as needed throughout. After the procedure, they safely guide the patient out of anesthesia and provide a recovery plan aimed at minimizing discomfort and reducing the risk of complications.

What is Intensive Care?

Intensive care is the branch of medicine that manages patients in critical condition, where there is a risk of sudden deterioration or life-threatening complications. The Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care at VITA Hospital provides continuous medical care for both planned and emergency cases, delivered by specialists in Anesthesiology and Intensive Care.

Types of Anesthesia

At VITA Hospital, we offer all modern types of anesthesia:

• General anesthesia (inhalational, using a breathing tube)
• Intravenous anesthesia (short- or long-duration)
• Regional anesthesia (epidural and spinal)
• Pain relief during labor and delivery (including epidural anesthesia)
• Perioperative Pain Management

For pain management during and after major procedures, the anesthesiology team performs ultrasound-guided nerve blocks. This technique targets specific nerves to provide effective and prolonged pain relief, supporting recovery and improving patient comfort. When longer-term pain control is needed, a small catheter may be placed and connected to a portable device worn by the patient, allowing continuous administration of pain relief after the procedure.

Equipment and Specialists

The Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care at VITA Hospital is equipped with modern medical technology from internationally recognized manufacturers, and staffed by some of the best specialists in the field — ensuring safe and high-quality care at every stage of treatment.