Anaesthesia for Resection of Lesions of the Trachea and Main Bronchi using the Neodymium Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Nd YAG) Laser. A Report of 75 Treatments in 52 Patients

The management of anaesthesia and outcome of 75 treatments in 52 patients are discussed. Total intravenous anaesthetic techniques were used with venturi ventilation via a rigid bronchoscope. A number of complications occurred, but there was no death or major surgical complication. All complications except one were apparent intraoperatively or in the recovery room. As the considerable risk of intraoperative hypoxia was considered to outweigh the minimal risk of intratracheal fire or explosion, no attempt was made to limit inspired oxygen concentration (F_IO₂) during the application of the laser. The results of ventilation/perfusion studies and a recent diagnostic bronchoscopy were very helpful in patient selection.