[The influence of enflurane (ethrane) on surface activity of the lung (author's transl)]

Enflurane (Ethrane), a new inhalation anesthetic, was examined for possible surfactant alterating properties. To elucidate this question two groups of rabbits underwent investigation: the first group (5 animals) was mechanically ventilated with room air over a five hour period. In the second group (7 animals) for the same period Enflurane in clinical dosages was added the inspired gas. At the end of the procedure in neither group could signs of impaired lung surface activity be detected: All rabbits showed normal blood gas values, normal pressure volume diagrams and physiologic behaviour of lung extracts in the wilhelmy balance. We conclude first that artificial ventilation "per se" does not harm lung surfactant and second that Enfluran anesthesia is a good choice for outstanding long procedures as well as for patients with already impaired surface activity of the lung, because there seems to be little risk of aggravating the situation.