The Complexity of Anesthesia: From History to Mechanism

This chapter explores the multifaceted realm of pain perception and anesthesia, beginning with the historical significance of general anesthesia demonstrated by William Morton in 1846. It also examines the physiological mechanisms at play, particularly the role of GABA as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, and how understanding these mechanisms can enhance patient safety in anesthesiology. Through insightful anecdotes and modern research, the chapter emphasizes the critical need for continued advancement in anesthetic science and the nuanced differences between anesthesia and natural sleep.