The laryngeal mask as an antipollution device.
Anaesthetic pollution is still a problem and recent UK Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) recommendations require employers to attempt to control the risk. Fifteen day-case urology operating lists were studied to compare the level of nitrous oxide exposure using face mask or laryngeal mask anaesthesia. Nitrous oxide was avoided in one group until the laryngeal mask was inserted. The use of the laryngeal mask airway showed a significant reduction in the level of pollution, such that recent COSHH recommendations were attained. However, (US) NIOSH levels were only reliably attained by avoiding nitrous oxide until the laryngeal mask was inserted. The laryngeal mask was therefore shown to be a reliable antipollution device.
O'Hare
K
K
Department of Anaesthesia, Southern General Hospital NHS Trust, Glasgow, UK.
Kerr
W J
WJ
D000395:Air Pollutants, Occupational / Q000032:analysis*; D018685:Anesthetics, Inhalation / Q000032:analysis*; D006801:Humans; D017214:Laryngeal Masks; D008397:Masks; D009609:Nitrous Oxide / Q000032:analysis; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009873:Operating Rooms; D013520:Urologic Surgical Procedures
D000395:Air Pollutants, Occupational; D018685:Anesthetics, Inhalation; D009609:Nitrous Oxide