Which medical gas is commonly used in surgical procedures for its anesthetic properties?

Nitrous oxide is well-known for its use in surgical procedures as an anesthetic agent due to its analgesic and anesthetic properties. It has a rapid onset and is easily controllable, which makes it particularly useful in both surgical and dental settings. Nitrous oxide can induce sedation and reduce anxiety, allowing patients to undergo procedures with a greater degree of comfort.

The other gases listed do not serve the same purpose as nitrous oxide in surgical anesthesia. Helium, while useful in certain medical situations, primarily serves as a carrier gas and lacks anesthetic properties. Oxygen is essential for patient respiration but does not provide anesthetic effects on its own. Carbon monoxide, known for its toxicity and role as a harmful gas, is not used in medical applications. This is why nitrous oxide stands out as the commonly utilized medical gas in surgical procedures for its anesthetic qualities.