The use of inhaled nitric oxide in a wide variety of clinical problems.

Inhaled nitric oxide (NO) clearly decreased pulmonary vascular resistance in pediatric patients with pulmonary hypertension, regardless of the underlying origin of the pulmonary hypertension. In persistent pulmonary hypertension of the neonate (PPHN) and CHD, the use of inhaled NO appears to improve the outcome of these patients. In acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and surfactant deficiency the role of inhaled NO therapy remains unclear. The use of inhaled NO is safe in a carefully monitored setting with a delivery system designed to minimize the generation of NO2.