Talk with your pulmonologist first and then talk with both the surgeon and the anesthesiologist who's probably the most important person in this situation. You want one who has worked with people with COPD and who understands the concerns. Your surgeon will probably require you to be okayed for surgery by your doc, and it should be your pulmonologist, not your PCP. I've had general anesthesia several times, was intubated both times and had no problems at all ever. I wish you the same experience!