Abstract
In thirteen patients capillary blood samples were obtained for measurement of pH and Pco2 immediately after the induction dose of thiopentone, after 45 minutes of 2 per cent halothane breathed spontaneously (with nitrous oxide and oxygen), and 30 minutes postoperatively. A very variable rise in Pco 2 was observed which did not correlate well with changes in pulse rate, blood pressure, respiratory frequency, respiratory minute volume, or with the age of the patient. A single measurement of respiratory minute volume with a Wright respirometer was of no value in indicating which patients had the greatest carbon dioxide retention. The return of Pco 2 to normal values in the postoperative period was found to be rapid and, for practical purposes, complete in 30 minutes.
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