World Anaesthesia Day Celebrations Held In Hyderabad
Hyderabad, October 17: The Anaesthesiologists of Hyderabad celebrated World Anaesthesia Day at Hotel Plaza, Begumpet, on Thursday till late night. The event was organised jointly by the Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists (ISA), Hyderabad and Telangana Chapters, and was attended by over 200 doctors and their families.
The theme of this year’s celebration was “From easing pain to ensuring safety, Anaesthesiologists care all the way.” The evening featured cultural performances and an informal gathering of the city’s anaesthesia professionals.
World Anaesthesia Day, observed annually on October 16, commemorates the first successful public demonstration of ether anaesthesia on October 16, 1846, in the USA. On that day, Dr William T. G. Morton, an American dentist, used ether to render a patient unconscious during surgery performed by Dr John Collins Warren — a moment that changed medical history by making painless surgery possible.
Three senior Anaesthesiologist were recognised and honoured for their outstanding contribution to the profession. They include Dr Raja Narsing Rao, Dr MSRC Murthy and Dr Padmaja.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Venkateshwara Rao, Secretary of ISA Telangana, said: “That single act 179 years ago revolutionised surgery and patient care. It marks the birth of modern anaesthesia — one of the greatest milestones in medicine.”
Dr Venugopal Kulkarni of ISA Hyderabad added: “World Anaesthesia Day reminds us to recognise the unsung heroes behind every surgery — the anaesthesiologists and critical care professionals who ensure patient safety and comfort.”
India today has over 50,000 anaesthesiologists, including around 7,000 in Telangana and 3,000 in Hyderabad, he shared. The profession, he noted, has evolved dramatically — from traditional methods to ultrasound-guided anaesthesia, which offers far greater precision and safety.
Dr. Srikanth, Treasurer of ISA, explained: “Before ultrasound, anaesthesiologists relied on anatomical landmarks and experience — a largely blind technique. With ultrasound, we now see nerves, vessels, and needle tips in real time. It has transformed practice, reduced complications, and improved patient comfort.”
Dr. Aditya Vikram Kabra reiterated a long-standing demand: “The National Medical Council (NMC) should formally recognise anaesthesiologists as competent physicians. We are perioperative specialists — managing patients before, during, and after surgery to reduce complications and enhance recovery.”
He also noted that the number of women anaesthesiologists in India is steadily rising, reflecting changing times and growing inclusivity in the field.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks to the organisers and participants for upholding the spirit of patient-centred care that defines modern anaesthesia.
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