Australia
A 25-year-old female asked:
How exactly does general anesthesia lead to heart attack, stroke or death? what are the mechanisms in the drug that leads to a stroke? how does it kil
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. Karen Sibertanswered
Anesthesiology 40 years experience
No single answer: Serious complications from GA are much more likely in pts who are already sick. If you have coronary artery disease, the stress of surgery and anesthesia can lead to heart attack. If you have already had a stroke, the same stresses can contribute to another. No one drug or technique is at fault. Surgery makes the body tend to form clots as part of healing. This can add to risk of stroke or MI.
4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Nov 18, 2015
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.