Climate-friendly anesthesia: USZ reduces emissions by 81 percent

Anesthetic gases are highly potent greenhouse gases. The Institute of Anesthesiology (IFA) at the University Hospital Zurich is therefore focusing on alternative anesthesia procedures. A study carried out at the institute has now shown positive effects, both ecological and economic.

Inhaled anesthetics are used to produce reversible unconsciousness, analgesia and muscle relaxation during anesthesia. They have one non-negligible disadvantage: they are harmful to the environment. The anesthetic gas desflurane, for example, is 2540 times more harmful than_CO2.

Propofol as an alternative

For most operations, intravenous anesthetics such as propofol can be used instead of anesthetic gases. “That’s why we made total intravenous anesthesia the standard anesthesia at the USZ two years ago,” says Corinna von Deschwanden, Head Physician at the Institute. In a retrospective study carried out by IFA staff, the consumption of anesthetics such as desflurane, sevoflurane and propofol as well as the use of plastic syringes and tubes has now been analyzed. The study, which covered a period of two years, investigated whether and to what extent switching to total intravenous anesthesia reduces both environmental impact and costs.

Drastic reduction in emissions

By completely discontinuing the use of the anaesthetic gases desflurane and isoflurane as well as the very restrictive use of sevoflurane, a drastic reduction in environmental pollution was achieved. Although the consumption of propofol and plastic syringes rose sharply at the same time, as expected, the measures implemented at the IFA resulted in an 81 percent reduction in environmental emissions. The changeover also led to a reduction in costs: compared to the second quarter of 2021, costs fell by 11% in the first quarter of 2023. Environmentally friendly anaesthesia practices are therefore not only environmentally beneficial, but also economically advantageous and contribute to the overall efficiency of the healthcare system.

Focus on patient safety

Completely climate-neutral anesthesia is difficult to achieve due to the large quantities of sterile disposable materials alone. Further optimization options are constantly being sought. “When discussing sustainability in anaesthesia, we must not forget that our focus remains on providing optimal care, adapted to the individual needs of patients, their health and safety during anaesthesia care,” says Corinna von Deschwanden. The University Hospital Zurich plans to further expand these sustainable practices.