OSE_1303_part2_Layout 1 2/7/13 4:27 PM Page 85
I N H A L A T I O N A L
A N E S T H E S I A
which can cause clotting issues, treatment-resistant heart arrhythmia
and increased surgical site infection risks.
Machine advances
Newer anesthesia machines are designed to facilitate the delivery of
low-flow anesthesia. When shopping for a new machine, its capacity
for low gas flow is an important feature to consider. Some machines
have default low-flow settings, so be sure the machines' capabilities
match the goals of your providers. Machines that can deliver low-flow
rates typically have advanced breathing circuits and absorbers, and
more accurate electronic flowmeters that let providers deliver lower
flows of anesthetic gases much more accurately than they could with
mechanical components found on older models. OSM
Dr. Sinha (ashish.sinha@drexelmed.edu) is professor and vice chair of
anesthesiology and perioperative medicine at Drexel University College of
Medicine in Philadelphia, Pa.
F E B R U A R Y 2013 | O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E
8 5
