@article{ref1,
title="Asphyxial deaths from the recreational use of nitrous oxide",
journal="Journal of forensic sciences",
year="1992",
author="Wagner, S. A. and Clark, Melissa A. and Wesche, D. L. and Doedens, D. J. and Lloyd, A. W.",
volume="37",
number="4",
pages="1008-1015",
abstract="The recreational use of nitrous oxide is widespread. Nitrous oxide for recreational use is usually obtained from anesthesia tanks or whipped-cream machine chargers or cans. Twenty previously described deaths associated with recreational nitrous-oxide use describe anesthesia tanks and whipped-cream machine dispensors as a source. Five deaths associated with nitrous oxide use are presented; two involving whipped-cream cannisters as the source, two involving anesthesia tanks, and one involving a racing fuel tank as a source of nitrous oxide. Autopsy findings in our cases were subtle or negative, but usually suggestive of asphyxia. Through a laboratory simulation, we have confirmed that nitrous oxide displaces oxygen in a closed space, which probably leads to asphyxia. A review of the literature, neuropharmacology, and pathophysiology of nitrous oxide use is also presented.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0022-1198",
doi="",
url="http://dx.doi.org/"
}