EFFECTS OF NITRIC-OXIDE INHALATION ON GAS -EXCHANGE AND HEMODYNAMIC PARAMETERS IN PATIENTS WITH ADULT-RESPIRATORY-DISTRESS-SYNDROME

Background: Adult respiratory distress syndrome is highly prevalent in intensive care units and has a high mortality. Lately, nitric oxide h as been used as adjuvant therapy. Aim: To study the effects of nitric oxide inhalation in patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome. Patients and methods: Twelve patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome, were subjected to nitric oxide inhalation at a concentratio n of 10 parts per million, during 30 minutes. Results: At the end of t he nitric oxide inhalation period, there was an improvement of PaO2/FI O2 ratio from 89+/-32 to 111+/-43 mm Hg and a 16% reduction of lung sh unting (Qs/Qt). Conclusions: Nitric oxide inhalation at a concentratio n of 10 parts per million improved arterial oxygenation and reduced pu lmonary shunting in patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome.