Update on nitrous oxide and its use in anesthesia practice
Zdravka Zafirova1, Colin Sheehan2, Leila Hosseinian2
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital System, 321 West 37 St, ap. 5A, New York, NY, 10018, USA.
Best Practice & Research. Clinical Anaesthesiology
|October 17, 2018
Summary
Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a safe and effective anesthetic and analgesic gas used in various medical settings. Its broad utility and ease of administration ensure its continued importance in clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology and Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Nitrous oxide (N2O) has a long-standing history in medical applications as an anesthetic and analgesic.
- Its mechanism involves action on multiple supraspinal and spinal targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical utility and safety profile of nitrous oxide.
- To highlight its persistent and expanding role in medical practice.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical and current clinical applications.
- Analysis of safety data and adverse effect incidence.
- Evaluation of administration protocols and provider/patient factors.
Main Results:
- N2O demonstrates utility across a wide range of clinical situations.
- The gas exhibits a favorable safety profile with low incidence and acuity of adverse effects.
- Administration is feasible by diverse medical providers and via self-administration by patients.
Conclusions:
- The safety, efficacy, and administration flexibility of nitrous oxide support its ongoing and growing use in clinical settings.
- Nitrous oxide remains a valuable agent for anesthesia and analgesia.
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