Effects of halogenated inhalational anaesthetics on respiration in dogs

Abstract

The methods used to assess the respiratory depressant effects of inhalation anaesthetics are illustrated by reference to observations made during halothane and enflurane anaesthesia in dogs. The timing of events of the respiratory cycle, determination of the functional residual capacity with the maximum pressure generated in the occluded airway, ventilation, and the response of these variables to increases in PaCO₂ need to be combined to give a complete profile of an agent’s effects.