Institutional development · Research, innovation and assessment · United Kingdom
University of Warwick reports largest UK trial finds general anaesthetic choice does not alter recovery
A UK trial comparing the two main general anaesthetic techniques used in the NHS found no difference in recovery after major surgery, according to the University of Warwick.
Why it matters: Patients and clinicians in the NHS can, according to the trial's finding, continue choosing between the two main general anaesthetic techniques on preference.
The University of Warwick announced results of a UK trial comparing the two main general anaesthetic techniques used in the NHS for major surgery.
The university described the study as the largest trial ever to compare these two techniques.
According to the university, the trial found that the choice of anaesthetic made no difference to patient recovery after major surgery.
The university said the choice of general anaesthetic for major surgery can therefore continue to rest on the preferences of patients and clinicians.
Editor’s view
Scott James, Research and Innovation Editor
For NHS patients and clinicians facing major surgery, the reported finding means that if the result holds, the choice between the two main general anaesthetic techniques can continue to be made on preference rather than on expected differences in recovery.
