Anaesthesia

An Anaesthesiology department at Action cancer hospital, New Delhi; specialises in providing anesthesia care specifically for cancer patients undergoing surgical and nonsurgical treatments. This department plays a critical role in cancer care, addressing the unique challenges and needs of oncology patients. Here are some key aspects of an oncoanaesthesia department in cancer care: 

Key Functions and Roles: 

Preoperative Assessment and Optimisation:  

• Comprehensive evaluation of cancer patients to assess their overall health, taking into account the specific impacts of cancer and its treatments. 
• Optimisation of patients' medical conditions before surgery to reduce preoperative risks. 

Tailored Anesthesia Plans: 

• Development of individualised anesthesia plans that consider the type of cancer, stage, and patient-specific factors. 
•  Use of techniques that minimise the impact on the immune system and overall well-being. 

Intraoperative Management: 

• Monitoring and managing patient’s vital signs during cancer-related surgeries, ensuring stability and safety. 
• Employing advanced monitoring technologies to detect and address complications early. 

Pain Management: 

• Implementation of effective pain management strategies to control acute and chronic pain associated with cancer and its treatments. 
• Use of multimodal analgesia, nerve blocks, and other techniques to reduce opioid consumption and improve recovery. 

Postoperative Care: 

• Providing specialised care in the immediate postoperative period to manage pain, nausea, and other symptoms. 
• Monitoring for and managing any complications that may arise after surgery. 

Palliative Care: 

• Collaborating with palliative care teams to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced cancer. 
• Addressing pain and other distressing symptoms in patients who are not candidates for curative treatments. 

Interventional Procedures: 

• Assisting in or performing interventional procedures such as biopsies, intrathecal drug delivery, and nerve ablations. 
• Ensuring these procedures are performed safely and comfortably for the patient. 

Research and Education: 

• Conducting research to improve anesthesia techniques and outcomes in cancer patients. 
• Educating medical students, residents, and fellows on the complexities of anesthesia care in oncology patients. 

Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams 

The Onco-anesthesia department works closely with: 

• Surgical Oncologists: To coordinate care and ensure optimal outcomes for surgical procedures. 
• Medical Oncologists: To understand the patients' chemotherapy regimens and their effects on anesthesia. 
• Radiation Oncologists: To manage anesthesia for patients undergoing radiation therapy. 
• Palliative Care Specialists: To provide comprehensive symptom management. 
• Nursing Staff and Allied Health Professionals: To ensure holistic and continuous care throughout the patient's treatment journey. 

Challenges in Onco-anesthesia 

• Managing patients with complex medical histories and multiple comorbidities. 
• Dealing with the effects of previous cancer treatments on anesthesia. 
• Ensuring minimal impact on the immune system to avoid affecting cancer prognosis. 
• Addressing the psychological and emotional needs of cancer patients. 

By providing specialized anesthesia care tailored to the needs of cancer patients, the oncoanesthesia department plays a vital role in enhancing the overall quality of care, improving surgical outcomes, and contributing to the patients' quality of life during their cancer journey.