Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) is a type of anesthesia that is administered for minor procedures. It is sometimes called “twilight anesthesia” or “conscious sedation.” Patients technically remain awake during the procedure, but are very relaxed. The level of sedation varies depending on what is being done surgically or medically. Some patients are just a bit groggy, others go to sleep and later have no memory of the procedure. A combination of medications are used so patients, in addition to being sleepy, do not feel pain.

MAC allows the patient to essentially sleep through the procedure and wake up immediately when it is over. The medications wear off quickly and the patient goes home the same day.