What type of anesthesia is most commonly used in abdominal surgery?

General anesthesia is the most commonly used type of anesthesia in abdominal surgery because it allows for complete unconsciousness and immobility during the procedure. This is particularly important in abdominal surgeries, where surgeons need to manipulate the internal organs without causing discomfort or awareness to the patient. General anesthesia ensures that patients are fully relaxed and pain-free, providing the necessary conditions for complex surgical interventions.

In addition, general anesthesia is typically administered through inhalation or intravenous methods, allowing for precise control over the patient's level of consciousness and pain management. This contrasts with local anesthesia, which numbs only a specific area, and regional anesthesia, which blocks sensation in a larger area of the body but does not induce unconsciousness. Monitored sedation, while useful for less invasive procedures, may not provide the depth of anesthesia required for major abdominal surgeries. Hence, general anesthesia is the preferred choice in these scenarios.