Nitrous oxide after intraocular gas surgery — FRCA Primary MCQ
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Correct answer: C — Nitrous oxide
The best answer is “Nitrous oxide”. Nitrous oxide enters closed gas spaces more rapidly than nitrogen can leave them and can expand a residual intraocular gas bubble. This can cause a dangerous rise in intraocular pressure and irreversible visual loss. The other inhaled anaesthetic agents listed do not have this closed-space expansion effect.
Reference: South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Gas in your eye: https://www.southtees.nhs.uk/resources/gas-in-your-eye/