The Anesthesia Consultant

OCTOBER 8, 2019

The most invasive type of airway tube used in anesthesia is called an endotracheal tube, or ET tube. At the onset of general anesthesia anesthesiologists place an ET tube through the mouth, past the larynx (voice box), and into the trachea (windpipe). The blood oxygen level dropped acutely to life-threatening levels.

General Anesthesia 52

General Anesthesia Anesthesia Anesthesiologist Post-Anesthesia 52

The Anesthesia Consultant

FEBRUARY 19, 2016

If this airway obstruction is not remedied, the oxygen saturation will drop below a safe level of 90%. At these low blood oxygen levels, the brain and heart will be deprived of necessary oxygen. A prolonged low blood oxygen level can lead to life threatening cardiac dysrhythmias or a cardiac arrest.

Blood Oxygenation Levels 52

Blood Oxygenation Levels Post-Anesthesia Anesthesia General Anesthesia 52

The Anesthesia Consultant

AUGUST 16, 2018

Some brain cells start dying within five minutes after the oxygen supply disappears, and brain hypoxia can rapidly cause severe brain damage or death. 1,2) In malpractice cases I’ve consulted on, a five-minute window is an accepted duration for low blood oxygen levels to cause permanent brain damage.

Post-Anesthesia 52

Post-Anesthesia Anesthesia Anesthesiologist Vital Signs 52