With the recent release of the movie Awake, there is a great deal of concern and heightened public awareness regarding the rare condition called "anesthesia awareness", which occurs when a patient stays or becomes awake but remains unable to move while under general anesthesia. Patients might find comfort in knowing that MUSC uses state-of-the-art monitoring equipment to ensure that anesthesia works effectively during surgery. This technology monitors brain activity alerts physicians in the operating room if a patient shows signs of awareness. Without this monitoring, these rare cases of intraoperative awareness can be undetectable because patients appear to be unconscious. MUSC stresses other safeguards as well. It is important to address potential risks for awareness through a frank conversation between the patient and the anesthesiologist. Certain medical conditions, as well as abuse of alcohol and recreational drugs can alter the effects anesthesia. Of particular concern are patients who have experienced awareness before. Another good practice is to always administer an amnestic drug, which causes amnesia and wipes out awareness. And of course all medical equipment should be thoroughly checked to guarantee proper function. | 
