You won't feel a thing - Hypnosedation may reduce the need for general anaesthetic

How amusing it is to see hypnotists make people cluck like chickens or bark like dogs. But while their art is seen by many as a form of entertainment, new research suggests that, medically, there may be a serious role for hypnosis.

This interesting article from The Times Online is packed with quotes from medical doctors and anesthesiologists who have used hypnosis as a sedative during various kinds of surgeries. It also mentions a few recent university studies on hypnosis. Good read.