minimum alveolar concentration age-adjusted
Age-specific MAC values reflecting the decreased anesthetic requirements in infants and elderly patients.
Full Definition
Age-adjusted minimum alveolar concentration values that account for the physiological changes affecting anesthetic sensitivity across different age groups. In pediatric patients, MAC values vary significantly with age, being highest in infants aged 3-6 months and decreasing thereafter. Neonates and premature infants have reduced MAC requirements due to immature nervous systems and altered pharmacokinetics. Understanding these age-related variations is crucial for anesthesiologists to provide appropriate anesthetic depth while minimizing the risk of awareness or excessive anesthetic exposure.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the patient's exact age when referencing age-adjusted MAC values.
In Context
- "The anesthesiologist calculated minimum alveolar concentration age-adjusted values for the 6-month-old patient." — Anesthetic planning documentation
- "Due to the neonate's gestational age, minimum alveolar concentration age-adjusted protocols were implemented." — Pediatric anesthesia guidelines