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Nitric Oxide

Nitric oxide is an endothelium-derived pulmonary arterial vasodilator.

NO has a wide variety of physiological roles, but clinically sees application only as a pulmonary vasodilator.

Indications

Two broad use-cases exist:

  • RV failure and pulmonary hypertension
  • Hypoxia
    Ideally ↑ V/Q matching by reversing pulmonary constriction in ventilated alveoli.

Contraindications

Anatomy

Equipment

Technique

Complications

  • B
    • Methaemoglobinaemia
      <5% acceptable.
    • Lung toxicity
      • NO2
        Should be monitored.

References