Question

What effect do inhalational agents have on CMRO2?

Answer 1

Inhalational agents can have a suppressive effect on CMRO2 by modulating neuronal activity in the brain, which can be beneficial for reducing the risk of brain damage during surgery.

Step-by-step explanation:

Inhalational agents, such as anesthetics used during surgery, have an effect on CMRO2 (cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen). These agents can cause a decrease in CMRO2 by suppressing neuronal activity in the brain. This can be beneficial during procedures that require reduced brain metabolism, such as in reducing the risk of brain damage due to ischemia or during neurosurgery.

For example, inhalational agents like sevoflurane have been shown to decrease CMRO2 by inhibiting neurotransmitter release and synaptic transmission in the brain, leading to a decrease in neuronal activity and oxygen consumption. This allows for better control of cerebral blood flow and reduces the risk of cerebral ischemia during surgery.

Overall, inhalational agents can have a suppressive effect on CMRO2 by modulating neuronal activity in the brain, which can have important implications for anesthesia and surgical procedures involving the central nervous system.

Answer 2

Inhalational anesthetic agents usually decrease cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2), which reduces the brain's demand for oxygen and can decrease cerebral blood flow.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student has asked about the effect of inhalational agents on cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2). Inhalational anesthetic agents typically decrease CMRO2. As CMRO2 declines, the brain's demand for oxygen is reduced, which can lead to a decrease in cerebral blood flow since less oxygen is necessary to meet the diminished metabolic needs.

This can be protective during surgery, as it reduces the likelihood of neuronal damage due to hypoxia. However, it is also essential to ensure that this decrease in CMRO2 is carefully monitored and managed to avoid potential complications, such as excessive cerebral depression. This is particularly relevant in patients with pre-existing brain injury or compromised cerebral blood flow.