Inspired O2 and N2O concentrations in essentially closed circuits.

By simulation of the FRC (functional residual capacity), washin of N2O was conceptually separated from uptake at the alveolar-capillary membrane. Data collected by mass spectrometry and pneumotachography during a period of 2 years showed a near-constant body uptake of N2O which makes clinical application of closed circuit N2O--O2 anesthesia simple and safe. The data failed to confirm accelerated washin by higher concentrations of N2O ("the concentration effect"), although there was a concentrating effect according to the law of mass action.