Use of nitric oxide for decompensated right ventricular failure and circulatory shock after cardiac arrest

We describe a case of peri-operative cardiac arrest, severe right ventricul ar failure and pulmonary hypertension in a 60-yr-old woman with interstitia l pulmonary fibrosis. Inhaled nitric oxide therapy rapidly improved arteria l oxygenation and haemodynamic variables, allowing recovery and weaning fro m mechanical ventilation. Subsequently, the patient was discharged from the cardiac intensive care unit.