I am not allowed to post on the official Clinical question board for good reason but I have a question regarding the MAC(minimal alveolar conc.) of gases. I don't need a lengthy response just a jumping off point. I recently shadowed a great CRNA in my area and he was trying to explain the origin of calculating the MAC of Sevo for example. I understand that it is 2 ( i believe) and that it means that half the population will experience amnesia at the concentration in the blood. (If I am wrong correct me ,please) My question is how is this number found and I understand that this only represents the level when no other agents are given but how does one figure out this concentration? Also how do you determine what concentration is appropriate along with other agents for example.

I would really like to read about it from a source since i am sure it is pretty complicated to explain. If someone want to post an answer on here then thanks in advance but I would equally appreciate being directed to a place to read about it for myself.

Thank you, sorry for not being in the right place. Thanks in advance!