Observations in the immediate postanaesthesia period. II. Mode of recovery.

THE events taking place as a patient emerges from anaesthesia are not well understood and several theories have been advanced to explain the phenomena that occur during this period. However, their exact cause will probably not be found as long as the basic mechanisms of anaesthesia are not entirely clear. A small number of clinical facts are, nevertheless, well established; an example is the wellknown inordinate behaviour of alcoholics during emergence. But a number of very basic facts need clarification. Does the age, sex or constitution of a patient have any definite influence on emergence from anaesthesia? What are the effects of the anaesthetic agent, the duration of procedure and the site of operation on emergence? This report of our observations in the immediate postanaesthesia period is related to these questions. These observations will help us to gain more knowledge of the problem and may enable us to make progress toward more rational and effective methods of treating and preventing postanaesthetic delirium.