World Anesthesia Day is an international awareness day celebrated to commemorate October 16, 1846, when modern anesthesia was successfully applied for the first time. This day is observed annually on October 16 to highlight the historical development of anesthesia, its role in medicine, and the contributions of anesthesiologists to healthcare services.

^{World Anesthesia Day (Türk Anesteziyoloji ve Reanimasyon Derneği)}

History

Modern anesthesia began on October 16, 1846, at Massachusetts General Hospital in the United States, when a patient was administered an anesthetic substance for the first time. This procedure was performed by dentist Dr. William T. G. Morton and is considered the beginning of the pain-free era in surgical operations. This date was later designated as “World Anaesthesia Day” by the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA), with participation from organizations representing anesthesiologists from over 150 countries worldwide.

Scope of Anesthesia

The term “anesthesia” derives from the Greek words “an” (without) and “aisthesis” (sensation), meaning “without sensation.” In the 19th century, it was defined as “a pain-free surgical state combining amnesia, analgesia, and narcosis.” Today, anesthesia is a medical practice that ensures surgical procedures are performed safely and comfortably.

^{Patient Under Anesthesia (Generated by Artificial Intelligence.)}

Anesthesiology is not limited to surgeries; it is also applied during childbirth, endoscopic interventions, radiological and angiographic procedures, and some psychiatric treatments. Anesthesiologists evaluate patients preoperatively, determine the appropriate anesthesia method, and manage informed consent processes. They also serve in intensive care and pain (algology) units.

Purpose and Significance

The purpose of World Anesthesia Day is to remind the medical community of the importance and role of modern anesthesia, draw attention to healthcare professionals working in this field, and raise awareness for the development of anesthesia services.

Global Theme

WFSA sets a specific theme for World Anesthesia Day each year. For example, the 2023 theme was “Anesthesia and Cancer Care.” This theme aimed to highlight the vital role of anesthesia in cancer treatment and strengthen anesthesia services for cancer patients. Approximately 80% of cancer patients require anesthesia and surgical care during treatment or palliative care.^【1】 

Anesthesiology in Turkey

The organization of anesthesiology in Turkey gained institutional structure with the founding of the Turkish Society of Anaesthesiology and Reanimation (TARD) in 1956. The society aims to train qualified specialists, ensure patient and staff safety, and improve the quality of healthcare services. In addition, the Turkish Society of Intensive Care contributes to scientific and clinical studies in the fields of anesthesiology and intensive care. These institutions commemorate World Anesthesia Day annually on October 16 and emphasize the importance of anesthesiology in the healthcare system through their messages.

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