Conclusion
Significantly, diethyl ether allowed surgeons to perform painful operations on patients rendered unconscious. However, diethyl ether is very flammable, especially in the presence of enriched oxygen mixtures. Due to this, there have been many fires and even explosions in operating rooms during surgery. This is the most important reason as to why diethyl ether was replaced as a general anesthetic, though it is still used commonly as a solvent and reagent in organic chemistry laboratories. Originally, non-flammable halogenated hydrocarbons like chloroform replaced diethyl ether, but they were more toxic. In 1956, halothane was introduced into clinical practice, because it is easy to use and has a better safety profile regarding organic toxicity. Halothane replaced diethyl ether, chloroform, and trichloroethane as an anesthetic agent, and is the only halogenated hydrocarbon used currently as an inhalation anesthetic. The others used are halogenated ethers, which contain a substitution of one or more hydrogen atoms with a halogen atom including F, Cl, Br, or I. Halogenated ethers are non-flammable and less toxic than earlier general anesthetics. Examples include isoflurane, desflurane, and servoflurane, but not all ethers are anesthetics. For instance, flurothyl is a stimulant. Overall, diethyl ether was replaced, because less hazardous anesthetics were utilized.
The lethal blood level of diethyl ether is 1400-1890 ug/mL. Diethyl ether should be used with extreme caution as a result of its fire and explosion hazards. As was discussed in characteristics page, diethyl ether can have negative side effects on the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. If side effects are a result of inhalation, get fresh air and rest. First aid for skin contact includes removing the contaminated garments and thoroughly washing the skin with water. To treat irritation to the eyes, flush eyes with a large amount of water. If side effects are a result of ingestion, rinse the mouth and drink several glasses of water. Do not try to purge the ingested liquid through vomiting. Additional medical attention, including artificial respiration, may be needed if symptoms persist.
Diethyl ether is a fascinating molecule with a wide variety of possible uses. However, its fire and explosion hazards and toxicity cause diethyl ether to only be used with extreme caution.
The lethal blood level of diethyl ether is 1400-1890 ug/mL. Diethyl ether should be used with extreme caution as a result of its fire and explosion hazards. As was discussed in characteristics page, diethyl ether can have negative side effects on the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. If side effects are a result of inhalation, get fresh air and rest. First aid for skin contact includes removing the contaminated garments and thoroughly washing the skin with water. To treat irritation to the eyes, flush eyes with a large amount of water. If side effects are a result of ingestion, rinse the mouth and drink several glasses of water. Do not try to purge the ingested liquid through vomiting. Additional medical attention, including artificial respiration, may be needed if symptoms persist.
Diethyl ether is a fascinating molecule with a wide variety of possible uses. However, its fire and explosion hazards and toxicity cause diethyl ether to only be used with extreme caution.