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Updated: Aug 5, 2025

A Novel Inhalation Mask System to Deliver High Concentrations of Nitric Oxide Gas in Spontaneously Breathing Subjects
Published on: May 4, 2021
[Burns caused by nitrous oxide cylinder misuse]
P Tillet1, F Bekara1, F Boissiere1
1Département de chirurgie plastique, reconstructrice, brûlés, plaies et cicatrisation, CHU Lapeyronie, Montpellier, France; Centre de traitement des brûlés, CHU Lapeyronie, Montpellier, France.
Abstract:
In recent years, we have seen an increase in the frequency of the misuse of nitrous oxide as a narcotic. The risks associated with its use are now well-known, such as neurological and psychiatric risks. In this study, we report our experience with specific thigh burns when using nitrous oxide canisters for narcotic purposes.
Patients And Methods:
Between November 2021 and August 2022 we treated 4 patients burned during a nitrous oxide use accident.
Results:
We report the cases of three women and one man with an average age of 28. Two of them were treated in addictology. We observed an average delay before consultation of a healthcare professional of 7days. The burns were all rounded and deep, localized at the level of the thighs. For three of the patients (one having been lost to sight), a split thickness skin graft was performed within an average of 32days.
Conclusions:
The non-medical use of nitrous oxide represents a real public health problem in addition to the adverse effects of the substance itself. Prevention and health security measures seem to be becoming essential.
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