A comparison of halothane and trichloroethylene with isoflurane. A study of drawover air anaesthesia with the Triservice anaesthetic apparatus.

Induction and recovery times were not significantly different between two groups that received halothane with trichloroethylene and isoflurane, respectively. Maintenance of anaesthesia and analgesia was also satisfactory. Isoflurane resulted in a higher heart rate (p less than 0.01), a lower respiratory rate (p less than 0.01) and a higher inspired oxygen concentration (p less than 0.05). Respiration may be more efficient. Other potential advantages of isoflurane for anaesthesia in the field are discussed. Despite the fact that it is 15 times more expensive, the use of isoflurane as sole agent is recommended.