Inhaled nitric oxide and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn

Nitric oxide appears to increase blood oxygen levels in newborn infants with pulmonary hypertension. Nitric oxide is a naturally occurring substance that dilates blood vessels. Researchers randomly assigned 58 newborn infants with low oxygen levels to receive either nitric oxide mixed with oxygen or nitrogen mixed with oxygen (the control group). Blood oxygenation levels in 53% of the infants receiving nitric oxide doubled whereas only 7% of the control group experienced increased blood oxygen levels. Mortality rates were similar but fewer infants receiving nitric oxide required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.