Inhaled nitric oxide in cardiology

Inhaled nitric oxide (INO) allows selective pulmonary vasodilatation with r apidity of action. It is effective in the acute management of reversible pu lmonary hypertension in cardiac medical and surgical patients and is also u seful in assessing the pulmonary vasodilator capacity in patients with chro nic pulmonary hypertension. This review will examine the role of INO in the management of cardiac patients, compared to alternatives where available. The use of INO in cardiac failure, post-operative cardiac patients, patient s with congestive cardiac failure or congenital heart disease will also be reviewed. Newer alternatives with prolonged pulmonary activity and simpler administration are also discussed.