Abstract
We describe the combined use of inhaled nitric oxide and heliox (79% helium and 21% oxygen) as a rescue therapy for a critically ill infant with localized interstitial pulmonary emphysema and pulmonary hypertension. Conventional interventions were ineffective, not feasible, or unlikely to take effect in time, during this infant's acute critical illness. We added heliox based on its known pulmonary effects, and inhaled nitric oxide to improve oxygenation, after echocardiographic evidence of high right-ventricular pressure. The infant made a full recovery. To our knowledge this is the first case report of heliox and inhaled nitric oxide used simultaneously in localized interstitial pulmonary emphysema.
- helium
- inhaled nitric oxide
- newborn
- respiratory distress syndrome
- localized interstitial pulmonary emphysema
- pulmonary hypertension
Footnotes
- Correspondence: Hilary Klonin MRCP, Hull Royal Infirmary, Anlaby Road, HU3 2JZ, East Yorkshire, United Kingdom;, Email: hilary{at}lama.karoo.co.uk.
Both Drs Phatak and Klonin have had a relationship with BOC Gases/Linde Group, Guildford, United Kingdom. The authors report no other conflicts of interest related to the content of this paper.
- Copyright © 2008 by Daedalus Enterprises Inc.