What does MAC stand for in anesthesia?

Minimum Alveolar Concentration (MAC) is a key pharmacological term in anesthesia representing the concentration of inhaled anesthetic at which 50% of patients do not respond to a surgical stimulus. It serves as a useful benchmark for comparing the potency of different anesthetic agents.

The determination of MAC is critical for anesthesiologists because it helps in the titration of inhaled anesthetics. Knowing the MAC values facilitates the safe administration of anesthetic agents while ensuring optimal anesthesia depth during surgical procedures. The lower the MAC value, the more potent the anesthetic.

This terminology is widely recognized and utilized in clinical practice, making it an essential component of anesthesia education and practice. Understanding MAC helps practitioners not only in selecting appropriate agents but also in ensuring they maintain the necessary dosage for effective anesthesia throughout a procedure.