THE CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECTS OF NITROUS OXIDE IN THE DOG

Abstract
The cardiovascular effects of nitrous oxide were studied in thirteen dogs. Nitrous oxide depressed the myocardial contractile force in the dog as measured with the Brodie Walton gauge. Cardiac output, central venous pressure, arterial blood pressure, and heart rate were not significantly changed. Sympathetic nervous responses were neither inhibited nor continuously stimulated by this agent. The effect of nitrous oxide on the efficiency of the heart is discussed.