Inhalational anaesthetic
Inhalational Anaesthetic
Inhalational anaesthetic (pronunciation: in-huh-ley-shuh-nl an-uh-sthet-ik) is a type of anaesthetic that is administered through inhalation.
Etymology
The term "inhalational anaesthetic" is derived from the Latin words "inhalare" meaning "to breathe in" and "anaestheticus" meaning "insensibility".
Definition
Inhalational anaesthetic is a chemical compound with general anaesthetic properties that can be delivered via inhalation. These are used in medicine to induce a temporary loss of sensation or awareness, allowing surgery or other painful procedures to be performed without causing distress or discomfort.
Types of Inhalational Anaesthetics
There are two main types of inhalational anaesthetics: volatile anaesthetics and gaseous anaesthetics.
- Volatile anaesthetics are liquid at room temperature, but readily convert to a gas in the operating room. Examples include isoflurane, desflurane, and sevoflurane.
- Gaseous anaesthetics are gases at room temperature. Examples include nitrous oxide and xenon.
Mechanism of Action
Inhalational anaesthetics work by depressing the central nervous system, leading to a loss of sensation which includes pain, and a loss of memory (amnesia). The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed that inhalational anaesthetics reduce the transmission of signals along nerves, possibly by interfering with the release of neurotransmitters.
Related Terms
- Anaesthesia
- Anaesthesiology
- General anaesthesia
- Local anaesthesia
- Regional anaesthesia
- Analgesia
- Sedation
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Inhalational anaesthetic
- Wikipedia's article - Inhalational anaesthetic
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