An Anesthetist's Perspective: Healing Beyond the Body

By Rose Maithya, Anaesthetist

When you think of anesthesia, you probably imagine medicine, machines, and a quiet operating room. But after five years of anesthetizing patients, I've learned that this moment when a person loses consciousness under general anesthesia is more than a medical procedure. It's a sacred act of surrender.

And that surrender? It humbled me.

Anesthesia: Where Medicine Meets Mystery

Anesthesia, whether local, regional, or general, is designed to block pain and awareness. But in those quiet moments before a patient “goes under,” I often find myself wondering: why are people more willing to surrender to a human doctor than to the Creator of their soul?

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you… thoughts of peace and not of evil…”  Jeremiah 29:11

As an anesthetist, the responsibility to manage someone’s consciousness someone I may have just met reminds me how fragile life is. That deep responsibility has made me seek God more fervently and depend on Him completely.

Prayer in the Pre-Op Room

Each time I prepare for surgery, I pray for my patients sometimes silently, sometimes aloud. I’ve encountered patients who were ready to be unconscious under anesthesia but were hesitant to receive Jesus Christ. This disconnect puzzled me.

They were willing to let go of control physically but not spiritually.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding…”  Proverbs 3:5-6

In that preoperative space, I learned that anesthesia isn’t just about numbing pain it reveals the deeper anxieties of the soul.

Fear, Faith, and the Operating Room

Many patients are calm during their initial consultations. But once they’re wheeled into the OR, fear creeps in. I often ask them a simple question:

“Do you trust in God?”

Most reply yes even Muslim patients. But the uncertainty of waking up after general anesthesia still unsettles them. I’ve realized that while medicine deals with the body, anesthesia often touches the soul.

One patient told me after surgery, “It felt like a deep, peaceful sleep. My thoughts were numbed. It was like being somewhere else.”

I asked her, “Don’t you think that peace is just a glimpse of the rest Christ offers?”

The Spiritual Wake-Up Call

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened… and I will give you rest.”  Matthew 11:28

Anesthesia leaves you in a vulnerable state no control, no awareness. Yet Jesus offers a peace that surpasses understanding, without sedation.
Unlike the anesthetist who brings you back after surgery, Jesus gives you life eternal where you’re fully conscious of joy, peace, and purpose.

Anchored by the Word

I often meditate on these verses in the theatre and wards:

• “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”  Psalm 147:3

• “He sent His word and healed them.”  Psalm 107:20

• “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.”  Acts 3:6

These scriptures aren't just comforting they’re active. They shape how I view medicine, healing, and the importance of salvation.

More Than Medicine: The Ultimate Healing

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you… Let not your heart be troubled.”  John 14:27

Surgery may bring relief, but only Jesus brings total healing body, mind, and soul.

If you're reading this and feel that tug in your heart the need to surrender, not to a doctor, but to God then this moment is for you.

A Prayer for Surrender

Say this prayer with sincerity:

“Lord Jesus, I recognize I need you. I’ve tried to live life on my terms, and it hasn’t worked. I believe You died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I confess You now as my Lord and Savior. Come into my heart, renew my mind, and help me walk in truth from today forward. I am yours.”

If you just prayed that prayer, welcome to the family of God.

Find a Bible-based, Spirit-led church near you. If you can’t find one, reach out to us; we’re here to walk with you.

Conclusion: The Surgery of the Soul

Every surgery I participate in reminds me: we’re not just bodies; we’re souls. And while anesthesia may offer temporary rest, only Jesus Christ gives eternal peace.

Whether you're a patient, medic, or reader simply seeking answers, healing beyond the body begins with surrender.

Let’s Connect

Are you a healthcare worker with a testimony? Or someone moved by this story?
Leave a comment, share your journey, or reach out for prayer. We’d love to hear from you.

Author Bio:

Rose Maithya is a licensed anesthetist with years of clinical experience. Her passion lies in merging faith and medicine to bring holistic healing to patients body, soul, and spirit.