MAC
Formal Definition
Monitored Anesthesia Care; an anesthesia service in which an anesthesia provider monitors a patient receiving local anesthesia with or without sedation; the patient may or may not require sedation, and the level can range from anxiolysis to deep sedation; distinct from general anesthesia in that a protected airway (ETT or LMA) is not established, but the anesthesiologist must be prepared to convert to general anesthesia if needed.
How It's Used on the Ward
"MAC" or "going under MAC" or "light sedation" — sedation with anesthesia present but no breathing tube; the patient can still breathe on their own.
Example
""Colonoscopy under MAC: anesthesiologist administering propofol infusion with the gastroenterologist performing the procedure. Patient breathing spontaneously, SpO2 99%. Procedure time 22 minutes. Recovery 30 minutes in PACU, patient alert and oriented, ready for discharge.""
Clinical Context
MAC levels: anxiolysis (minimal, patient awake and cooperative), moderate sedation (conscious sedation, patient arousable), deep sedation (not easily arousable, may need airway support), general anesthesia (loss of consciousness, requires protected airway). MAC vs conscious sedation: MAC requires an anesthesiologist or CRNA; conscious sedation can be provided by non-anesthesia providers with specific training. MAC indications: minor procedures, endoscopy, cardiac catheterization, interventional radiology, ophthalmic surgery. Risks: respiratory depression (especially with propofol), aspiration if patient vomits, conversion to general anesthesia for unexpected airway problems.
306 clinical terms, flashcards, quizzes, and ward simulations. Free to start.
Practice All Terms on DoctorSpeak