Awake Medical Procedures: The Worst Experiences

Every surgical experience brings its own set of challenges, but some procedures can be particularly traumatic when performed while the patient is awake. This article explores some of the most unforgettable and distressing awake medical procedures, drawing from personal accounts and medical perspectives. Whether it's a traumatic accident at the age of seven or a complicated heart surgery, these experiences can leave lasting memories.

Personal Recollections: A Childhood ER Visit

One of the most memorable and distressing experiences for many was a trip to the emergency room in childhood, especially when the patient is wide awake. I generally avoid doctors, so my list of experiences is limited, but the most vivid memory involves a particularly traumatic visit to the ER in the summer of 1972. It all started with a car accident where the back of a station wagon rear-ended a friend’s vehicle. The back gate of the car came in, causing me and other kids to be thrown out onto the pavement.

I remember the chaos and the doctors trying to stabilize my condition. One of the most memorable parts was the process of inserting a tube down my nose to pump my stomach. I was given crushed ice to swallow, which felt like trying to swallow a mouthful of rocks. The experience was compounded by the pain from the accident and the fear of the unknown. It was many years before I could recall this part of the experience, and it serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life.

Wisdom Tooth Removal: A Stressful but Not Unusual Experience

Another memorable experience, though no where near as traumatic, was the removal of a wisdom tooth. This procedure, while not particularly painful, was incredibly stressful. The process involved breaking up and extracting the tooth, which took a month before my mouth could fully open again. The stress came from the anticipation of the pain and discomfort, rather than the actual procedure itself.

A Surgeon’s Perspective: No Procedures are Bad

From a surgeon's standpoint, every procedure is performed with the intention of improving the patient's condition. Therefore, there isn't a "worst" procedure. Even when performing minor procedures in awake patients, local anesthesia is typically used to ensure the area is numb, minimizing any distress. However, experiences like the one described by a patient who had a collapsed lung as a complication after a heart operation and required multiple bronchoscopies can certainly be some of the most memorable and difficult.

A Respiratory Complication and Its Aftermath

The patient had a collapsed lung as a result of a heart operation. The treatment for this involved several bronchoscopies, with the first one being conducted without any form of anesthetic. The patient was held down while the apparatus was inserted into the throat, leading to inevitable retching. The second bronchoscopy, conducted under a light anesthetic, was also distressing. The patient awoke during the procedure, adding a layer of agony and distress as they were aware of what was happening but unable to move or protest.

These experiences, compounded by the aftereffects such as vigorous physiotherapy, left a lasting negative impact on the patient. Despite being over 40 years old, the memories are still quite fresh and vivid.

Conclusion

Awake medical procedures, though necessary, can be some of the most distressing and memorable experiences. Whether it's a personal account of a childhood accident or professional insight from a surgeon, these experiences highlight the complexity of medical procedures. If you have any similar experiences to share, or if you need further information, feel free to leave a comment below or contact a healthcare professional.