Anesthesiologist said I have to be awake for the placing of the oxygen tube

[Mzdiva3 12]

Well guys the anesthesiologist went the old traditional way. I never had to be awake. 4 days postop

[Cabingirl 55]

If you're anatomy or physical condition warrants it, it is not that unusual, particularly among individuals with a very high BMI, a very short neck, and/or severe sleep apnea. The dangers of anesthesia among this population deserves to be treated with respect.

If you are concerned about this, the only person to have the conversation with is your surgeon.

Ask him/her if he is aware of the anesthesiologist's preference, ask him if he is used to working regularly with this anesthesiologist, how frequently has he seen this done in his surgeries.

Your surgeon is the "captain of the ship," and your safety and comfort is his/her utmost concern.

If he says he prefers it based on anesthesiologist's recommendation, then know that you will be made very comfortable and while you will be "awake" you will likely be "pleasantly confused," and will not be bothered by this.

I encourage you to speak with your surgeon. What the rest of us think or have personally experienced will not give you the confidence you need.

[spop2 5]

Glad to hear it all went smoothly! As an anesthesiologist, it is the safest method in some situations. I will greatly dispute the previous comment about the surgeon being the "captain of the ship"...: the surgeon does the surgery, the airway is the sole responsibility of the anesthesiologist & the entire procedure is a team effort.