The pulmonary hemodynamic effects of 1,1,1-trichloroethane inhalation

We examined the hemodynamic effects of 1,1,1-trichloroethane (TCE) inhalation in anesthetized dogs in acute inhalation experiments. Six adult mongrel dogs with spontaneous respiration were intubated, connected to a one-way valve. TCE was delivered by the tubular system connected to a 30-liter tedlar bag reservoir filled with 1 v/v% of TCE. After TCE inhalation, the animals revealed a significant decrease in systemic arterial pressure following a decrease in systemic vascular resistance. Pulmonary arterial pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance and right cardiac work increased significantly. These changes were compatible with clinical manifestations of TCE intoxication in human beings. In conclusion, inhalation of TCE may not only decrease peripheral vascular resistance, but also induce transient disturbance of pulmonary blood flow with subsequent pressure overloading in the right ventricle.