Desflurane
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Desflurane is not used widely in veterinary patients due to lack of research. It has a low potency in comparison to other agents.
Pharmacokinetics
Desflurane's boiling point is very close to room temperature but vapour pressures are very high, meaning that an electronic, temperature controlled pressurised vapouriser must be used to be able to effectively control the concentration of the agent delivered to the patient. The blood:gas partition coefficient is the lowest of all the agents meaning that it is relatively blood insoluble. It also has low tissue solubilities meaning that it has rapid onset of action, recovery and depth of anaesthesia changes. The MAC of desflurane is approximately 7.2% in the dog. It hardly undergoes any form of metabolism.
Adverse Effects
Central Nervous System
- Increases intracranial pressure.
- Also may cause increases in cerebrospinal fluid pressure.
Cardiovascular System
- Minimal cardiovascular effects.
Respiratory System
- Dose-dependent respiratory depression.
- May cause airway irritation so not recommended for mask induction.