Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026
14:39
Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
Published on: November 4, 2010
Heliox for nonintubated acute asthma patients.
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|October 21, 2006
Summary
Helium-oxygen (heliox) therapy offers no significant benefit for most acute asthma patients. However, it may improve lung function in those with severe airway obstruction, though more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Medicine
- Pulmonary Critical Care
Background:
- Helium and oxygen mixtures (heliox) have a long history in respiratory medicine.
- Their efficacy in acute respiratory emergencies, particularly severe acute asthma, remains debated.
- Over 60 years later, the role of heliox in severe acute asthma treatment is still unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of adding heliox to standard care on acute asthma outcomes.
- Key endpoints included pulmonary function tests and clinical assessments.
- This systematic review aimed to clarify heliox's role in acute asthma management.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) identified through the Cochrane Airways Group Specialised Register.
- Searches included contacting authors and experts, with data current to August 2005.
- Inclusion criteria specified RCTs comparing heliox to placebo in pediatric or adult acute asthma patients.
Main Results:
- Ten trials involving 544 patients (7 adults, 3 children) were analyzed.
- Overall, heliox showed no significant improvement in pulmonary function (SMD -0.28; 95% CI -0.56 to 0.01).
- A potential benefit was observed in patients with severe baseline obstruction, but based on limited data; no significant difference in hospital admission rates was found.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence does not support routine heliox administration for all emergency department asthma patients.
- Heliox therapy is not recommended for the initial treatment of acute asthma.
- While preliminary findings suggest benefits for severe obstruction, these require cautious interpretation due to small study sizes and between-group comparisons.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
01:30Asthma-IV: Nursing Management
The nursing management of asthma is a comprehensive approach that relies heavily on the expertise and dedication of healthcare professionals. It involves thorough assessment, accurate diagnosis, strategic planning, effective implementation, and diligent evaluation. By meticulously following this step-by-step process, healthcare professionals play a crucial role in providing the best possible care and treatment for patients with asthma, enhancing their overall health and well-being.
First, in...
First, in...
01:13Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations
Asthma presents with a characteristic pattern of episodic respiratory symptoms that reflect underlying airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus hypersecretion. Although severity varies among individuals, certain clinical manifestations are considered hallmarks of the disorder and often guide diagnosis and assessment.Respiratory SymptomsA persistent cough is one of the most common early features of asthma. It is frequently dry and tends to worsen at night or in the early morning,...
01:26Pneumothorax-I
A pneumothorax is a condition where air builds up in the space between the lung and the chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. This condition arises when air enters the space between the parietal and visceral pleura, disrupting the negative pressure essential for lung inflation. This can lead to a partial or complete collapse of the lung.
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.
01:22Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned under...
01:23Acute Respiratory Failure-IV
Respiratory failure can manifest suddenly or gradually, characterized by a rapid decline in PaO2 and a rapid rise in PaCO2. This situation indicates a severe respiratory problem that may quickly become a life-threatening emergency. One of the early signs of hypoxemic Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF) is a change in mental status due to the brain's sensitivity to oxygen levels and changes in acid-base balance. Symptoms such as restlessness, confusion, and agitation suggest inadequate oxygen...