As a former OR nurse who worked daily with anesthesiologists & CRNAs - there are many options for surgery - not just general anesthesia. Regional anesthesia ( think spinal) was the norm for elderly patients who needed orthopedic surgery - even joint replacements. Monitored anesthesia care is anesthesia 'light' and is usually the type of anesthesia given where a breathing tube is not necessary & the patient remains semi-conscious and able to manage their own airway. I've also been involved in surgeries where the surgeon just used a local anesthetic or block on the field & we chatted with the patient all during the procedure. If you require a surgery that necessitates general anesthesia - it's likely you REQUIRE the surgery. Speak to the anesthesia team at your surgery center in person to address any concerns you have. There has been much research done on post-anesthesia patients & they will be aware of the latest research, your diagnosis, & what the best plan for your anesthesia care during surgery will be. When I left the OR - elective surgery for children under two was discouraged due to the long term effects of anesthesia. NOTE: ELECTIVE SURGERY. Not "necessary surgeries" for quality of life or management of a life-threatening condition.