Desflurane vaporiser design — FRCA Primary MCQ

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HardPhysics and Clinical MeasurementDesflurane vaporiser designFRCA Primary

A theatre has a separate electrically powered vaporiser for desflurane. Which property of desflurane makes this necessary?

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Correct answer: A — High saturated vapour pressure near room temperature

Desflurane has a high saturated vapour pressure and a boiling point close to room temperature, so it requires a heated, pressurised vaporiser. High blood-gas solubility is incorrect; desflurane has low blood-gas solubility. It undergoes minimal metabolism and has low potency rather than high oil-gas solubility. These physical properties explain both rapid kinetics and specialised delivery.

Reference: Dorsch and Dorsch Understanding Anesthesia Equipment; Peck, Hill & Williams Pharmacology