Over the years, there has been a rapid growth of knowledge in the field of anesthesiology, resulting in an equivalent growth in the number of textbooks and journals. Almost all of these publications address the needs of anesthesia practitioners and trainees but none have been written specifically for patients. The object of this publication, therefore, is to address the need of patients for knowledge of anesthesia and anesthetists. Working in conjunction with their doctors or alone, readers will find the book easy-to-read, follow and understand. It is a source of significant information, and an important reference document for both physicians and patients during the time of pre- and post-operative surgery.