IV Anesthesia
One of the unique characteristics of oral and maxillofacial surgeons is their ability to provide IV anesthesia in the office setting. This provides a comfortable means of undergoing oral surgical procedures. Dr. Bobo received several months of hospital-based general anesthesia training during his residency and has 20+ years of experience providing safe, comfortable IV sedation/general anesthesia in the office setting.
Office based anesthesia has been part of the training, practice and history of oral and maxillofacial surgery for over 90 years. The model of anesthesia delivery is the “anesthesia team model” in which the surgeon, along with the trained assistants and nurses carry out administration of the anesthetic, perform airway and cardiac monitoring and perform the surgical procedures.
Dr. Bobo possesses anesthesia certifications administered by the Kentucky and Tennessee Boards of Dentistry. Both offices have been inspected by their respective oral surgical state society anesthesia committees and state dental boards and deemed safe facilities to practice IV anesthesia. All appropriate emergency medications and equipment are available in the offices. Dr. Bobo has obtained Advanced Cardiac Life Support training and Pediatric Advanced Life Support training and is certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Dr. Bobo additionally has obtained board certification by the National Board of Dental Anesthesiology.
Patients are typically monitored during their anesthesia with pulse oximetry, blood pressure, heartrate, end tidal CO2, and EKG monitors. A careful medical history is obtained prior to the anesthesia and surgery. Medications are usually given through an IV, but may also be given IM (particularly in younger children). The medications used may include versed (midazolam), fentanyl, propofol, and ketamine. The goal is to slowly administer the medications appropriate to each individual’s weight and response to achieve a deeply sedated state during the procedure with a relatively short recovery period afterwards.
We welcome your questions regarding anesthesia. Our goal is to provide the most comfortable and safe anesthetic and surgical procedures possible.