The effects of nitrous oxide on the auditory evoked potential index during sevoflurane anaesthesia.

We have studied the effects of nitrous oxide on the auditory evoked response index (AAI-index) derived from the A-line monitoring device during sevoflurane anaesthesia in 21 patients undergoing minor ambulatory surgery. During sevoflurane anaesthesia with an AAI-index < 30, the addition or withdrawal of nitrous oxide in a concentration of 66% end tidal did not show any linear dose dependent change in AAI-index . However, comparing nitrous oxide > 40% to nitrous oxide < 10% end tidal concentration the AAI-index did decrease, p < 0.05. The AAI-index is either non-linear at deeper anaesthetic levels or is insensitive to the anaesthetic effects of nitrous oxide in terms of MAC-multiples.