title: Atmospheric derivatives of anaesthetic gases as a possible hazard to operating-room personnel.
abstract: During surgical procedures in which nitrous oxide (N2O) anaesthesia was administered there was an increased concentration of both nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in operating-room air. Preliminary studies suggest that the use of certain devices (e.g., electric cauteries, X-ray machines) capable of releasing energy in the operating-room produce the oxidation of nitrous oxide. Further evaluation of gas phase reactions of anaesthetic agents within the operating-room appear warranted, particularly in relation to the occupational risks of operating-room personnel.
mesh_terms: D000014:Abnormalities, Drug-Induced / Q000209:etiology; D000758:Anesthesia / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004560:Electricity; D004781:Environmental Exposure; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006846:Hydrocarbons, Halogenated / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D008431:Maternal-Fetal Exchange; D009569:Nitric Oxide / Q000009:adverse effects; D009585:Nitrogen Dioxide / Q000009:adverse effects; D009609:Nitrous Oxide / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009872:Operating Room Technicians; D010084:Oxidation-Reduction; D011247:Pregnancy
chemical_list: D006846:Hydrocarbons, Halogenated; D009569:Nitric Oxide; D009609:Nitrous Oxide; D009585:Nitrogen Dioxide