Y48: Anaesthetics and therapeutic gases

Y48.2: Other and unspecified general anaesthetics

The term "Other and unspecified general anaesthetics" describes a category of substances used to produce a loss of sensation in patients undergoing medical procedures. These substances can be either inhalational or intravenous, and their specific types may vary depending on the surgical requirement. General anaesthetics work by altering the signals in the brain, temporarily leading to a complete loss of consciousness and feeling. Consequently, patients do not feel pain during surgery. Potential side effects of these anaesthetics can include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, shivering, confusion, and temporary memory loss. However, these effects generally resolve once the anesthesia has worn off. It's important to note that, while generally safe, the use of general anaesthetics does carry a risk of complications, especially in patients with pre-existing medical conditions. Therefore, a thorough health assessment is typically performed before their application.