Inhaled Nitric Oxide: A Review of the Action, Current Literature, and An Analysis of its Use in the NHS Today

Nitric oxide is a potent vasodilator which when inhaled causes dilatation in the pulmonary vasculature. It is this action that has been studied in intensive care medicine, especially in relation to hypoxic vasoconstriction associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The use of inhaled nitric oxide has been shown to improve ventilation:perfusion matching, and thus to improve oxygenation. This article reviews the chemistry and clinical properties of nitric oxide as well as its potential uses, clinical effectiveness and side effects. The authors also surveyed UK intensive care units to review the current prevalence of the use of inhaled nitric oxide. It was found that while the majority do not currently use inhaled nitric oxide in ARDS patients, it had still been used in 27% (n=61) of the departments surveyed.