THE EFFECT OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE-NITROUS OXIDE ANAESTHESIA ON ACID-BASE BALANCE IN MAN

Thirty-five patients undergoing major operations under trichloroethyleneand nitrous oxide anaesthesia with muscle relaxants and withaugumented respiration in a Magill System (Mapleson A) or non-rebreathingsystem were monitored with regard to acid-base balance and ventilation.A trend to acidosis occurred with the Mapleson A system, particularlyin those in the prone position. A mild respiratory alkalosisoccurred when the non-rebreathing system was used. Acid-basebalance reverted to the pre-operative state early in the recoveryperiod and blood pressure, pulse and cardiac rhythm remainedrelatively stable throughout. This study indicates that trichloroethylenecan be a suitable anaesthetic for major surgery provided thatthe criteria enumerated in this report are fulfilled.