PLACENTAL TRANSFER OF METHOXYFLURANE

Estimations of methoxyflurane levels in material arterial and umbilical cord, venous and arterial blood were made in forty-three patients. As was anticipated from the physical characteristics of the agent, transference across the placenta was early and relatively unrestricted. Apgar scoring of the infants was carried out and showed a low incidence of foetal depression. No correlation could be established reaction was very favourable, especially when compared with previous experience with ether. These findings suggest that methoxyflurane may be used to advantage the careful use of light planes of anaesthesia. © 1968 John Sherratt and Son Ltd.