Pulmonary vasodilatory effects of 12 and 60 parts per million inhaled nitric oxide in children with ventricular septal defect

In conclusion, inhaled nitric oxide selectively decreased pulmonary vascular resistance of children with VSD and moderate pulmonary hypertension. During 7-minute intervals, pulmonary vascular resistance was selectively decreased to a similar extent by 12 and 60 ppm inhaled nitric oxide while breathing air or supplemental oxygen. Pulmonary vascular resistance was also decreased by supplemental oxygen alone; however, there was a concomitant increase in systemic vascular resistance. Pulmonary vascular resistance decreased to a greater extent with oxygen and inhaled nitric oxide than with either nitric oxide or oxygen alone.