Atmospheric pollution with halothane in operating theatres. A clinical study using activated charcoal

Considerable reductions of halothane pollution in the operating theatre environment can be achieved with canisters containing activated charcoal attached to the expiratory limb of the anaesthetic circuit. This study indicates that the efficiency is greatest with cases requiring endotracheal intubation. If the facemask is employed, it is essential to achieve a tight seal with the contours of the face to eliminate unnecessary pollution.