Anesthetic vaporizer

Anesthetic Vaporizer

An Anesthetic Vaporizer (pronunciation: an·es·thet·ic va·po·riz·er) is a device commonly used in the medical field to administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgical procedures. The device is designed to convert liquid anesthetic into its vapor and subsequently add a controlled amount of the vapor to the gas flow.

Etymology

The term "Anesthetic Vaporizer" is derived from the words "anesthetic", which originates from the Greek words "an-" (without) and "aisthēsis" (sensation), and "vaporizer", which comes from the Latin word "vapor" (steam, heat).

Function

The primary function of an anesthetic vaporizer is to provide a controlled and safe concentration of anesthetic vapor to the patient's respiratory system. This is achieved by converting liquid anesthetic into vapor and then adding it to the gas that the patient breathes.

Types

There are two main types of anesthetic vaporizers: plenum and drawover. Both types have their own advantages and disadvantages and are used in different situations.

Plenum Vaporizers: These vaporizers are attached to an anesthetic machine. They are designed to deliver a precise concentration of anesthetic vapor to the patient.

Drawover Vaporizers: These vaporizers are not attached to an anesthetic machine. Instead, they are portable and can be used in field conditions. They are less precise than plenum vaporizers but are more versatile.

Related Terms

Anesthesia: A state of controlled, temporary loss of sensation or awareness induced for medical purposes.
Respiratory System: The organs that are involved in breathing, including the nose, throat, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.
Plenum Vaporizers: A type of anesthetic vaporizer that is attached to an anesthetic machine.
Drawover Vaporizers: A type of anesthetic vaporizer that is portable and can be used in field conditions.