Stable-xenon-CT: effects of xenon inhalation on EEG and cardio-respiratory parameters in the human.

The effects of inhalation of a 33% Xenon-O2 mixture over a period of 5 minutes on EEG and cardio-respiratory parameters were studied in 18 human volunteers. This dosage is similar to that used clinically in Xenon-CT studies. In 4 cases no EEG power change was observed during the study. In the 14 other subjects EEG variations were seen. The most prominent change was an increase in beta EEG power. No change was observed in theta and delta EEG power. The findings seem to correlate with the early induction (excitation) phase of an anaesthetic. Hyperventilation was observed before the study and increased during the Xenon inhalation. Blood pressure remained stable while the heart rate tended to decrease a little. All these changes disappeared rapidly following the termination of the Xenon inhalation. The effects are minimal and should not reduce the clinical value of CBF measurement using the Xenon-CT method.