At Fore River Urology, we’re committed to making your procedures as comfortable and stress-free as possible. That’s why we offer nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas,” as an option for certain in-office procedures upon your request.
What is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is a safe and mild sedative gas that you inhale through a small mouthpiece. It works quickly to help you feel relaxed and less anxious during your procedure. While it’s often called “laughing gas,” the effect is more about reducing anxiety and creating a sense of well-being rather than causing uncontrollable laughter.
We utilize the ProNox system, a patient-controlled nitrous oxide delivery system. This means you have the ability to administer the gas as needed, giving you a greater sense of control over your comfort level throughout the procedure.
How is Nitrous Oxide Administered?
- Comfortable Mouthpiece: You will hold a comfortable mouthpiece to your mouth and inhale normally through it.
- Inhalation: As you inhale, the nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen will begin to take effect within minutes.
- Patient Control (with ProNox): With the ProNox system, you hold the mouthpiece and inhale when you feel you need it. This allows you to adjust the level of sedation as desired under the guidance of our clinical team.
- During the Procedure: You will continue to breathe through the mouthpiece throughout the procedure. You will remain conscious and able to communicate with our team.
- After the Procedure: Once the nitrous oxide is turned off, it is rapidly eliminated from your body through normal breathing.
What are the Benefits of Nitrous Oxide?
- Reduces Anxiety and Fear: Nitrous oxide is very effective at easing anxiety and helping you feel more relaxed during your procedure.
- Quick Onset: The effects of nitrous oxide are felt very quickly, usually within a few minutes of inhalation.
- Rapid Recovery: One of the significant advantages of nitrous oxide is that it washes out of your system quickly once the gas is stopped.
- Safe to Drive Home Soon After: In most cases, after a brief 10-15 minute waiting period in our waiting room, you will likely be safe to drive yourself home. This eliminates the need for a designated driver.
- Patient Controlled (with ProNox): The ProNox system empowers you to manage your comfort level during the procedure by inhaling through the mouthpiece as needed.
- Minimal Side Effects: Side effects are generally mild and short-lived, if they occur at all.
What to Expect During Your Nitrous Oxide Experience:
Most patients describe the feeling of nitrous oxide as:
- Relaxing and calming
- A sense of well-being or mild euphoria
- Lightheadedness or giddiness
- A tingling sensation in the extremities
- Sounds may seem distant or altered
It’s important to understand that everyone’s experience can be slightly different. Our team will monitor you closely throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort.
What are the Potential Risks and Considerations?
Nitrous oxide is a very safe sedative for most patients when administered under proper medical supervision. However, like any medical treatment, there are some potential risks and considerations:
- Mild Nausea or Dizziness: Some patients may experience mild nausea or dizziness, which usually subsides quickly after the gas is stopped.
- Headache: A mild headache can occur in some individuals.
- Contraindications: Nitrous oxide may not be suitable for everyone. Please inform our team if you have any of the following conditions:
- Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Acute respiratory infections
- Middle ear infections
- Recent eye surgery involving gas injection
- Pregnancy (generally avoided, discuss with your doctor)
- Additional Fee: Please be aware that there is an extra fee associated with the use of nitrous oxide for your procedure. Our team can provide you with the specific cost.
Nitrous Oxide is Available For:
At Fore River Urology, you can request nitrous oxide for the following procedures:
- Vasectomy
- Prostate Biopsy
- Cystoscopy
Please discuss your interest in using nitrous oxide with our team when scheduling your procedure or during your pre-procedure consultation. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have and determine if it is a suitable option for you.
Breathe easier and experience a more comfortable procedure with nitrous oxide at Fore River Urology.
