Features of xenon as an anesthetic
Xenon is an inert noble gas that does not enter into chemical reactions in the body. It is not metabolized by the liver and kidneys and is excreted unchanged through the lungs, which fundamentally distinguishes it from most anesthetics and makes it attractive for patients with dysfunction of these organs.
Clinically, xenon anesthesia is characterized by a very rapid onset of effect and an equally rapid awakening - usually within a few minutes after stopping the gas supply, with clear consciousness and without prolonged drowsiness. Xenon practically does not inhibit myocardial contractility and does not reduce blood pressure, so hemodynamics remain stable during surgery. It also has its own analgesic effect, which allows you to reduce the dose of narcotic analgesics.
The main limitations of the method are the high cost of gas and the need for special anesthesia-respiratory equipment with a recirculation system, since xenon is expensive and is not consumed in a flow. In addition, it is not suitable for operations that require a high concentration of oxygen in the breathing mixture. The decision on use is made by the anesthesiologist after examination.
Who is responsible for security
An anesthesiologist-resuscitator is a doctor who manages the patient’s vital functions throughout the operation: breathing, blood circulation, level of consciousness and pain relief. The surgeon deals with the intervention, the anesthesiologist deals with the human condition.
Modern anesthesia is based on continuous monitoring. Deviations in indicators are visible in seconds, which allows you to intervene in advance. That is why an examination by an anesthesiologist before surgery is mandatory, and not formal: the choice of drugs and doses depends on the collected anamnesis.
Why can't you eat before anesthesia?
Under general anesthesia, the muscles, including those that hold the contents of the stomach, relax. Food and liquid can get into the airways, a condition called aspiration and one of the most dangerous complications of anesthesia.
Therefore, the fasting rule - 6-8 hours for solid foods and 2-4 hours for clear liquids - is strictly observed. Violation of this rule is grounds for rescheduling elective surgery.
What influences the choice of method
The volume and duration of the intervention, age, weight, condition of the heart, lungs and liver, allergies, medications and previous anesthesia experience are taken into account. In children, inhalation methods are more often used, in the elderly - drugs with rapid elimination.
In most cases, several options are possible, and the anesthesiologist discusses them with the patient. The final decision is made jointly, taking into account risks and preferences.