Renal Function During Anesthesia and Surgery

Abstract

Measurements of urine volume, clearances of para-aminohippuric acid and inulin, filtration fraction, and Na+ and K+ excretion were performed in 6 patients with normal renal function undergoing elective surgery. Studies were performed prior to induction and at light and deep levels of anesthesia. Halothane was the only anesthetic agent used. Results indicated that halothane is comparable to thiopental in its depressant effects on renal function, and is somewhat superior to ether and cyclopropane. The changes in urine volume and Na+ excretion during general anesthesia may be due solely to the fall in glomerular filtration rate and renal plasma flow. It is suggested that these changes may be reversed by the prophylactic administration of saline or hypertonic mannitol.