Apparatus and techniques for reducing the effects of general anesthetics

摘要

An apparatus for reversing inhaled anesthesia, which is configured to be positioned along a breathing circuit or anesthesia delivery circuit, includes a filter for removing one or more anesthetic agents from gases passing therethrough, as well as a component for elevating CO₂ levels in gases that are to be inhaled by an individual. The apparatus is configured to be positioned between a Y-connector of the breathing circuit and the portion of the breathing circuit that interfaces with the individual. The CO₂ level-elevating component facilitates an increase in the ventilation of the individual without resulting in a significant decrease in the individual's P_aCO₂ level and, thus, a decrease in the rate at which blood flows through the individual's brain. A method of reversing the effects of inhaled anesthesia includes increasing the rate of ventilation of an anesthetized individual while causing the individual to inhale gases with elevated amounts of CO₂ and while filtering anesthetic agents from such gases.