Effectiveness of Carbon Filters to Reduce the Anesthetic Gas Concentration in an Anesthetized Patient

Malignant hyperthermia is a potentially fatal inherited disorder triggered by exposure to
volatile anesthetic gases, most commonly recognized in children during anesthesia. Carbon
filters have been used to scavenge various gases. A new carbon filter (Vapor Clean,
Dynasthetics, LLC, Salt Lake City, Utah) with a 510(k) clearance specifically for scavenging
anesthetic gases is being marketed, though the filter itself has never been studied in vivo.
Bench studies conducted by the manufacturer of the product demonstrate it is extremely
effective in reducing the volatile gas output from an anesthesia machine within 2 minutes.
This pilot study will measure the effect on volatile gas concentration in non-malignant
hyperthermia susceptible patients. Twelve (12) patients will undergo standard anesthetic
induction using inhalational anesthetic (Sevoflurane®) and maintained on 3% for 30 minutes
to attain steady state concentrations.1 At that time, a total intravenous anesthetic
technique will be started and maintained throughout the case. Simultaneously a Vapor Clean
filterset will be placed in the breathing circuit (inspiratory and expiratory limbs).
Volatile gas concentration will be measured and recorded. This research will determine the
feasibility of using this carbon filter to quickly reduce the breathing circuit gas
concentration of volatile anesthetic in the clinical setting. This is fundamental in
establishing this as a key life saving measure in eliminating the stimulus in a malignant
hyperthermia event.