Desflurane

Definition

Desflurane is a volatile anesthetic agent used for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia during surgical procedures. Its rapid onset and offset properties make it particularly useful in outpatient surgeries, allowing for quicker recovery times. This anesthetic is known for its low blood solubility, which contributes to its effectiveness in facilitating quick changes in anesthesia depth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Desflurane has one of the lowest blood-gas partition coefficients among volatile anesthetics, allowing for rapid changes in anesthetic depth.
2. Due to its low potency, desflurane is often administered alongside other agents to achieve the desired level of anesthesia.
3. The use of desflurane may be associated with airway irritation, which can lead to coughing or breath-holding upon emergence from anesthesia.
4. Desflurane is typically delivered using a vaporizer specifically designed for low boiling point agents due to its unique physical properties.
5. It is important to monitor hemodynamic stability during desflurane administration, as it can cause dose-dependent cardiovascular effects.

Review Questions

• How does desflurane's pharmacokinetic profile influence its application in surgical procedures?
  • Desflurane's pharmacokinetic profile, particularly its low blood solubility, allows for rapid induction and recovery from anesthesia. This characteristic is particularly advantageous in outpatient settings, where quick patient turnover is necessary. The ability to quickly adjust anesthetic depth also enhances the safety and efficiency of surgeries, making desflurane a popular choice among anesthesiologists.
• Discuss the advantages and potential drawbacks of using desflurane compared to other volatile anesthetics like sevoflurane.
  • Desflurane offers the advantage of rapid onset and offset due to its low blood solubility, making it ideal for short procedures. However, it can cause airway irritation and discomfort upon emergence, which may not be as pronounced with sevoflurane. While both are effective, the choice between them often depends on the specific needs of the patient and the nature of the procedure being performed.
• Evaluate the implications of using desflurane on patient recovery times and overall surgical outcomes.
  • Using desflurane can significantly improve patient recovery times due to its rapid clearance from the body. This quick recovery can enhance patient satisfaction and facilitate earlier discharge from outpatient procedures. However, careful management is necessary to mitigate any side effects, such as cardiovascular instability or airway irritation, which could impact overall surgical outcomes if not addressed appropriately.

Related terms

Isoflurane:

Isoflurane is another volatile anesthetic that is commonly used for general anesthesia, characterized by its moderate potency and slower onset compared to desflurane.

Sevoflurane: Sevoflurane is a volatile anesthetic that offers a rapid induction and recovery profile, often favored for use in pediatric anesthesia due to its sweet taste and lower irritability.

General Anesthesia: General anesthesia is a medically induced state of unconsciousness with the absence of pain sensation over the entire body, achieved through the use of anesthetic agents like desflurane.