Counting Backwards

Anesthesiologist/author Przybylo takes readers beyond the forbidden operating room doors into the O.R. itself. In a calm, warm tone, the author details how patients are given anesthesia prior to medical procedures and the myriad of ways in which they differ. He deftly includes the history of anesthesia, from the discovery of ether to more modern ways of blocking pain and alleviating pre-surgery anxiety. Wonderful book for those skittish about undergoing surgery.

Absolutely fascinating book on the little-known world of anesthesia. The author skillfully recounts the history of anesthesia through modern day practices (without an anesthetic-like effect on the reader), while incorporating his own experiences as an anesthesiologist throughout the book. Written in a down-to-earth and composed manner, easy to understand and brings some comfort should one need to undergo surgery.

Review This is a simple but fascinating memoir about the life of one particular anesthesiologist. The book provides pertinent history, medical knowledge, case studies and musings about the job and it's art. There is much more to the job than I thought. The anesthesiologist must examine the patient, decide on an anesthesia plan, put them out, keep them out, avoid mishaps, deal with emergencies, bring them back, and manage their postoperative pain. What I loved about the book is the author is humble, humane, and honest with a great love for his job. I have been knocked out twice in my life and the experience was scary, weird and interesting. Where does one go when you get to 97 and your conscious tether is released. This book gives you some clues but "going under" is still a mystery.