The death of JOAN RIVERS and what it means for patients contemplating surgery and anesthesia.

Joan Rivers died at an endoscopy center while undergoing biopsy of larynx. She was 81. She will be missed for her unforgiving red carpet coverage and her controversial comedic persona.
Lessons to be learned from her unexpected death:

1. Be wary of deep anesthesia for simple procedures.

2. If you are going to get deep sedation or general anesthesia, always ask your surgeon the credentials and experience of the person who will be putting you to sleep for any procedure.

Anesthesiologists not only put people to sleep or give them deep sedation, they are responsible for your safety during the procedure. For example, if a surgeon accidentally cuts a blood vessel, an anesthesiologist is the person who makes sure that you stay alive.

Be informed!
Know your anesthesia provider and check out the facility before you opt to have any surgical intervention.

wishing you good health,

Sarosh Saleemi, M.D.,