Heliox-driven albuterol nebulization for asthma exacerbations: an overview
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Updated: Jun 29, 2026

Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
Published on: November 5, 2010
In K Kim1, Alvin L Saville, Kendra L Sikes
1Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Kosair Children's Hospital, University of Louisville, 571 S Floyd Street, Suite 300, Louisville, KY 40202, USA. in.kim@louisville.edu
Abstract:
Our understanding of albuterol nebulization driven by helium-oxygen mixture (heliox) has matured with recent advances in clinical therapy, delivery systems, and understanding of dosing; this has led to substantial improvements in delivery as well as refinements of research protocols for asthma exacerbations. This review begins with heliox inhalation therapy and then addresses heliox as a driving gas for nebulization. Technical considerations are reviewed, including optimal gas mixtures, flow-rate adjustment factors, and nebulizer setup.
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