[Occupational exposure to volatile anesthetics and reproductive effects: a bibliographic review of epidemiological studies].

Abstract

Up to the early eighties, a variety of epidemiological studies suggest that chronic exposure to low doses of anesthetic gases, as occurs in operating rooms, is an occupational risk factor for spontaneous abortion and congenital defects. Numerous and more recent epidemiologic studies are reviewed; currently it is suggested that there is inadequate evidence to conclude that occupational exposure to anesthetic gases causes increased rates of spontaneous abortion or congenital anomalies. The improvement of environmental conditions, that has reduced airborne levels of anesthetic gases in operating rooms, has been critical in reducing the risk of abortion and congenital defects. In agreement with recent epidemiological reports, we believe that the health surveillance of exposed workers must include the study of pregnancy outcome.