ORCID
- J. R. Sneyd: 0000-0003-3546-9856
Abstract
Nitrous oxide is an N-methyl--aspartate receptor antagonist and may reduce the incidence of chronic post-surgical pain. • Nitrous oxide oxidizes Vitamin B12 and can precipitate sub-acute combined degeneration of the cord with chronic use or in patients with folate/B12 deficiency. • Nitrous oxide expands air spaces and is contraindicated in patients with pneumothorax or recent (up to 4–6 weeks) ocular surgery using intraocular gas. • Nitrous oxide has global warming and ozone depletion potential and its concentration in the theatre environment is regulated. • The ENIGMA-II trial showed that nitrous oxide does not increase the risk of death or cardiovascular complications.
Publication Date
2016-03-01
Publication Title
BJA Education
Volume
16
Issue
3
ISSN
2058-5349
Keywords
1A01, 1A02
First Page
87
Last Page
91
Recommended Citation
Sneyd, J., & Brown, S. (2016) 'Nitrous oxide in modern anaesthetic practice', BJA Education, 16(3), pp. 87-91. Retrieved from https://pearl.plymouth.ac.uk/more-foh-research/120
