Inhalation of Helium-Oxygen Mixture in Two Cases of Maternal Respiratory Distress during Labor and Delivery

Authors:

Alyamani O^1*, Bharadwaj S¹, Jonna S¹, Li J¹, Malinow AM²

Volume 2, Issue 1

Abstract

Inhaled mixtures of helium-oxygen have been rarely used in spontaneously ventilating patients presenting with airway obstruction during labor and delivery. We present two patients, each suffering from severe tracheal narrowing due to extra-tracheal compression by goiter and each presenting with respiratory distress during the second stage of the labor. Inhaled helium/oxygen was administered to relieve respiratory distress; routine labor and assisted vaginal delivery ensued without further maternal or neonatal complication. We review the rationale for the use of inhaled helium/oxygen in such patients. We also review the anesthetic plan for unexpected abdominal delivery, including airway management for general anesthesia.

Keywords:

Obstetrics; Complications; Goiter; Respiratory Distress; Heliox

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