Dr Auret Lochner – Anaesthesiologist – Stellenbosch

Dr Auret Lochner – Anaesthesiologist – Stellenbosch

Dr Auret Lochner, Anaesthesiologist in Stellenbosch, earned her MBChB from the University of Stellenbosch in 1991. Subsequently, she completed her MMed in Anaesthesia in 2000 and holds a BPharm from the University of Cape Town (1984). Since joining Mediclinic Winelands Orthopaedic Day Clinic, she has specialised in perioperative anaesthetic care for both orthopaedic and rheumatology procedures. Moreover, Dr Lochner collaborates with The Institute of Orthopaedics and Rheumatology to streamline protocols and enhance patient safety under one integrated model.

Additionally, she champions ultrasound‑guided regional anaesthesia, which improves block accuracy and reduces complications. Consequently, patients benefit from targeted nerve blocks that minimise discomfort. Her expertise also extends to general anaesthesia, spinal anaesthesia, and geriatric anaesthesia, ensuring that care adapts to each patient’s physiology. Furthermore, she leads the clinic’s acute pain management program by developing multimodal analgesic protocols that lessen opioid reliance and accelerate recovery.

In addition, Dr Lochner contributes to registrar training and quality‑improvement initiatives. By mentoring emerging clinicians, she ensures that best practices in safety and efficiency are passed on. She also engages in research on enhanced recovery after surgery, presenting findings at national seminars. Therefore, the clinic stays at the forefront of anaesthetic innovation while maintaining personalised patient engagement.

Services

• General anaesthesia for orthopaedic and rheumatology procedures

• Spinal anaesthesia for lower‑limb and abdominal surgeries

• Ultrasound‑guided regional anaesthesia and peripheral nerve blocks

• Geriatric anaesthesia, optimised for older adult physiology

• Acute pain management, including Patient‑Controlled Analgesia (PCA)

• Multimodal analgesic protocols, reducing opioid use

• Preoperative assessment clinics, tailoring anaesthetic plans

• Postoperative pain follow‑up and optimisation, ensuring smooth recovery

Each service features personalised planning and constant monitoring. As a result, patients experience efficient same‑day discharge without compromising safety or comfort.

Additional Information

The Day Clinic houses advanced ultrasound systems for precise nerve block placement. In addition, it utilises state‑of‑the‑art patient monitors with integrated hemodynamic and temperature sensors to maintain stability throughout surgery. Moreover, digital anaesthesia workstations synchronise drug delivery with real‑time vital signs, which enhances both accuracy and efficiency.

Furthermore, preoperative planning employs 3D imaging protocols that map anatomical landmarks. Consequently, nerve block success rates improve and overall procedure times shorten. A dedicated acute pain service allows rapid intervention for breakthrough pain, thereby minimising postoperative discomfort. Additionally, a specialised physiotherapy suite equipped with anti‑gravity treadmills and Cybex strength‑testing machines supports early mobilisation and optimises rehabilitation outcomes.

Dr Lochner places strong emphasis on patient education. She provides bespoke information on sedation expectations, analgesia options, and recovery pathways so that individuals feel informed and empowered. The clinic also hosts regular community seminars on pain management strategies, reflecting its commitment to holistic well‑being and outreach.

Finally, multidisciplinary collaboration among anaesthesiologists, surgeons, and physiotherapists ensures cohesive care plans. Therefore, functional outcomes are maximised and hospital stays remain brief. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your anaesthetic plan with Dr Auret Lochner.