Common events and risks for children and young people

The infographic summary below shows some of the common events and risks that healthy children and young people of normal weight face when having a general anaesthetic (GA) for routine surgery (specialist operations may carry different risks).

Modern anaesthetics are very safe. There are some common side effects which are usually not serious or long lasting. Risk will vary between individuals and will depend on the procedure and the anaesthetic used. Your anaesthetist will discuss with you and your carers the risks they believe to be most significant. You and your carers should also discuss with them anything you feel is important to you.