Heliox as a Temporizing Measure for Pediatric Foreign Body Aspiration

Abstract

The authors report their experience with using heliox as a temporizing measure for an aspirated foreign body in a young child.

Respiratory problems in Accident and Emergency – the role of helium–oxygen mixtures

“…In the 1930s, Barach first used Heliox in patients with asthma and upper airway obstruction. Since then it has been used in subglottic oedema, bronchiolitis, post‐extubation stridor [1] and foreign body aspiration [2].…”

“…Although there is insufficient evidence to recommend it unequivocally, it may be of some benefit in certain conditions where airflow is critical [2]. For this reason we would like to suggest that Heliox should be readily available, especially in Accident and Emergency departments.…”