1917 oral rhythmic insufflation of oxygen
The therapeutic value of oral rhythmic insufflation of oxygen.
By S.J. Meltzer, M.D., LL.D..
New York.
Journal American Medical Association.
October 6.
Pages 1150-1156:
Skeptical view by majority of physiologists:
Oxygen incapable of exerting physiologic influence.
Oxygen inhaled does not affect metabolism.
Oxygen returns unabsorbed.
Inefficient method of administration:
Oxygen given in a weak current through a funnel kept an inch or more from mouth.
Under these conditions we can hardly speak of "inhalation of oxygen."
Funnnel may make inspired air richer in carbon dioxide.
Surely makes air over the face warmer.
Unpleasant sensation.
Patient prefers to be fanned & cooled off.
We often see patients pushing funnel away,
or turning head away from it.
Test case:
25-year-old man dying with pneumonia.
Nurses administering oxygen.
In the usual manner.
Through a paper funnel.
Kept at some distance.
Oxygen bubbling through a wash bottle at moderate pace.
Disconnected rubber tube from foot bellows of my pharyngeal insufflation apparatus.
Connected it with an oxygen cylinder.
Inserted pharyngeal tube in mouth.
Not in the pharynx.
Turned on oxygen.
Started working the respiratory valve.
Valve is opened & closed 12 times a minute.
Within a short time cyanosis disappeared.
Face of patient became actually pink.
Minutes after discontinuance cyanosis began to reappear.
Test on myself:
Insufflation of oxygen by means of this apparatus.
Under moderate pressure no unpleasant sensations.
Under too much pressure surplus of oxygen escapes through nose.
Never enters esophagus.
Causes some unpleasant sensations.
My chest was examined by auscultation.
Distinct inspiratory blowing sound.
Oxygen entered my lungs,
even when I kept glottis in a state of adduction.
Rhythmic insufflation assists in maintenance of respiration.
Helpful in ventilation of lungs.
Helpful in removal of accumulated carbon dioxid.