Statistical analysis of the alterations of blood gases produced by nasal packing

Ted A. Cook, Robert M. Komorn

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

71 Scopus citations

Abstract

Alteration in pulmonary physiology occurred in 20 patients who had nasal packing, bed rest and sedation for control of epistaxis. While the packs were in place there was a uniform decrease in the arterial P02 and an increase in the arterial PC02 which was statistically significant. These changes were most marked in six patients who had pre-existing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Removal of the packing or ligation of the internal maxillary artery quickly reversed the hypoxic state.It is postulated that the cardiovascular stress resulting from purposely inducing a hypoxic state with nasal packing, bed rest, and sedation may be the underlying etiology for sudden death. The alternative of using internal maxillary artery ligation not only avoids this hypoxic state but can also shorten the hospital stay and eliminate the discomfort and local complications known to occur with nasal packing.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1802-1809
Number of pages8
JournalLaryngoscope
Volume83
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1973
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Otorhinolaryngology

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