[Effects of ethrane and halothane on compliance and resistance (author's transl)]

In young patients with healthy lungs, the effects of ethrane and halothane on compliance and resistance have been investigated. With the use of ethrane we found a dose-dependent decrease in compliance, but this decrease was statistically assured only at relatively high inhalation concentrations. The resistance of the respiratory passages remained virtually unchanged. Similar changes in compliance and resistance have also been observed with the use of halothane. The decrease in compliance induced by both anesthetic agents may be due either to interference with the surface tension of the alveolar wall, or to transitory changes in the fluid content of the pulmonary parenchyma. For the practical use of ethrane and halothane no significant differences appear to exist on the basis of their effects on compliance and resistance.