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Updated: Jul 1, 2026

Optogenetic Activation of Afferent Pathways in Brain Slices and Modulation of Responses by Volatile Anesthetics
Published on: July 23, 2020
Direct effects of volatile anesthetics on cardiac function
S Gentry-Smetana1, D Redford, D Moore
1Circulatory Sciences Graduate Perfusion Program, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
Sevoflurane significantly impairs left ventricular function at lower concentrations than isoflurane during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Lower volatile anesthetic concentrations are crucial for cardiac recovery post-CPB.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Volatile anesthetics are used during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) for general anesthesia.
- Their central nervous system effects are understood, but cardiac effects require further definition.
- This study investigates the impact of isoflurane and sevoflurane on left ventricular function during CPB.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the effects of isoflurane and sevoflurane on left ventricular function.
- To compare the cardiac impact of these two volatile anesthetics at varying concentrations.
Main Methods:
- C57BL/6 female mice were exposed to isoflurane or sevoflurane (0.5-5%).
- Cardiac function was assessed using transthoracic echocardiography (TTE).
Main Results:
- Sevoflurane reduced left ventricular function at lower concentrations than isoflurane.
- At ≥2% concentrations, sevoflurane significantly decreased cardiac output, ejection fraction, and fractional shortening.
- Sevoflurane also increased end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes.
- Isoflurane caused a less pronounced reduction in left ventricular function compared to sevoflurane.
Conclusions:
- Sevoflurane has a greater negative impact on left ventricular function than isoflurane at clinically relevant concentrations during CPB.
- Lower concentrations of volatile anesthetics are recommended during CPB, particularly during cardiac recovery phases.
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