Brief History of Anesthesia: a Narrative Review
Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: Background: Anesthesia is considered one of the most significant advancements in modern medicine, transforming surgery from a painful and hazardous procedure into a safe and controlled medical practice. Objective: To review the historical evolution, classification, mechanisms, clinical applications, and safety considerations of anesthesia in modern surgical care. Methods: This article presents a narrative review of the development of anesthesia, beginning with early clinical observations by Horace Wells and the introduction of nitrous oxide. It further examines the landmark public demonstration of ether anesthesia by William T. G. Morton in 1846. The review also outlines the evolution of airway management strategies, regional and local anesthetic techniques, including spinal anesthesia and peripheral nerve blocks, and advances in anesthetic pharmacology. Results: Anesthesia is broadly classified into general, regional, and local types. Each category differs in mechanism of action, indications, commonly used agents, and clinical applications. Advances in airway management, monitoring techniques, and pharmacological agents have significantly enhanced perioperative safety. The article also identifies associated risks, high-risk patient populations, contraindications of major anesthetic agents, and essential intraoperative and postoperative precautions. Conclusion: Progress in anesthetic techniques and pharmacology has markedly improved surgical outcomes, enhanced patient comfort, and enabled the safe execution of complex surgical procedures. Emphasis on vigilant monitoring, appropriate drug selection, and patient-centered care remains central to modern anesthetic practice.
Author: Ritika*1, Dr. Shyamal Koley2
Language: English
Subfield: History
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7133648389
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